How often a raised bed needs water

A raised bed drains faster than the ground around it, so in a dry spell it needs water every two or three days rather than once a week. Push a finger into the soil: if the top five centimetres are dry, it is time.

Water early in the morning, slowly and deeply. A soaker hose laid between the rows wets the roots without wetting the leaves, which keeps mildew away from tomatoes and courgettes.

Mulch keeps the water in

A five centimetre layer of straw or grass clippings cuts evaporation by half. Keep it a hand away from the stems so they stay dry.

In August, when beds dry out fastest, check the mulch weekly and top it up as it settles.