How to Increase Moisture Retention in Garden Soil

When your soil drains too fast it is better for your garden plants when you increase the moisture retention in your garden soil.  Soils that are largely comprised of clay and sand tend to evaporate their moisture quickly after rainfall or watering. 

• Select methods that help you to retain moisture year after year.  The main ways to increase moisture is to build a xeriscaping design, add to your existing soil, and use mulch.


• Research on the Internet or in magazines and books about xeriscaping methods.  This technique that allows you to consume less fresh water to irrigate your lawn and plants due to its design.  This method is an attractive way to incorporate walkways and driveways as part of the ecological system that is your property.  Simply trench areas at the sides of paths and driveways to allow water to flow to areas of your garden plants, and your yard. 


• Add compost to your soil before planting your garden.  Use a shovel to turn your clay soil in order to separate the dirt as much as possible.  Add an equal amount of compost to the dirt and be sure to mix the compost and clay soil thoroughly in a one-to-one ratio.  Clumps of compost or clay will not retain water.


• Spread cedar mulch around the base of the plants after they have grown past their seedling stage.  This protects the soil from the suns rays that cause moisture to evaporate.