Plants need water to grow, but sometimes rain does not fall for a long time. When an area goes many days, weeks, or even months without enough rain, it is called a drought. During a drought, gardeners and farmers work hard to help plants stay healthy.

One way to help plants during a drought is by adding mulch around them. Mulch can be made from wood chips, straw, or shredded leaves. It helps keep moisture in the soil and slows down evaporation.

A second way to help plants is by watering deeply. Instead of giving plants a tiny amount of water every day, gardeners sometimes water thoroughly so the moisture reaches deeper roots. This can encourage roots to grow farther into the soil.

A third strategy is watering during cooler parts of the day. Watering early in the morning allows plants to absorb moisture before the hottest temperatures arrive. Less water is lost to evaporation when the sun is lower in the sky.

A fourth way to help plants is by grouping them together. Plants growing close together can help shade the soil and reduce water loss. This can make it easier for the garden to stay moist during dry weather.

Even during difficult conditions, gardeners can use smart strategies to help plants survive. By paying attention to water and soil, they can give plants a better chance to stay healthy until rain returns.

Try It!

Find two small areas of bare soil outside. Cover one area with leaves, straw, or mulch, leaves or even a bucket, the other uncovered.

After a warm day, carefully touch both areas. Which one feels cooler? Which one seems to have held onto more moisture?

Write down your observations and think about how mulch might help plants during hot, dry weather.

Small changes can make a big difference when water is limited!