THINK OF YOUR SUMMER GARDEN AS ALWAYS JUST HUMMING ALONG!

WATER REPELLENT SOILS

Soils can become hydrophobic – or water repellent – when they’re dry for extended periods. They become compacted, air can’t circulate and a waterproof liner settles on the top of the soil.

Check for hydrophobia by watering an area of your soil for about 10 minutes. If the water pools rather than sinking, your soil is hydrophobic. In pot plants, the water runs down the side of the pot rather than heading for the roots. Soil-wetting agents – a spray or granules – help your soil restart its water absorption. They’re like a detergent and break down the waxy coating on the soil surface.