How To Plant Ginger [ Full Guide ]

Ginger, known for its aromatic and culinary uses, is a popular spice with a variety of health benefits. Growing your own ginger can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to enjoy the freshest and most flavorful produce at your fingertips. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the process of planting ginger, from choosing the right rhizomes to preparing the soil and providing optimal growing conditions. We will also discuss the health benefits of ginger, making it an even more worthwhile addition to your garden. By following these detailed steps, you can successfully cultivate your own ginger and enjoy its many uses in cooking and holistic remedies.

Quick Answer: How To Plant Ginger

If you’re looking for a quick overview of the process, here are the basic steps to plant ginger:

1. Choose the Right Rhizomes: Select fresh and plump ginger rhizomes from a reputable source.
2. Prepare the Soil: Ensure well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH.
3. Planting Ginger: Bury the ginger rhizomes in shallow trenches or pots with the buds facing up.
4. Provide Adequate Water and Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
5. Optimal Growing Conditions: Place the ginger in a warm, humid environment with indirect sunlight.
6. Harvesting: Wait 8-10 months before harvesting the mature ginger rhizomes.

Now, let’s explore each step in detail to ensure a successful ginger planting experience.

The Health Benefits Of Ginger

Before diving into the planting process, it’s essential to understand the numerous health benefits associated with ginger. This spice has been used for centuries in traditional medicine due to its powerful medicinal properties. Here are some of the potential health benefits of consuming ginger:

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Ginger contains bioactive compounds that can reduce inflammation in the body. This makes it a potential remedy for conditions such as osteoarthritis and muscle pain. It may also help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Digestive Aid

Ginger has long been used to treat various forms of gastrointestinal distress. It may help with nausea, indigestion, and bloating. Some studies have also suggested that ginger could be beneficial in reducing the severity of menstrual cramps.

Immune-Boosting Properties

Regular consumption of ginger may help strengthen the immune system, making the body more resilient to infections and illnesses. Its antioxidant properties can also combat oxidative stress and prevent cellular damage.

Potential Cancer-Fighting Properties

Some preliminary studies have indicated that the bioactive compounds in ginger may have a protective effect against certain types of cancer, particularly those affecting the gastrointestinal tract.

Motion Sickness And Nausea Relief

Ginger has been proven to be effective in reducing symptoms of motion sickness, nausea, and vomiting. It is often recommended as a natural remedy for these conditions.

With these compelling health benefits, having a fresh supply of ginger at your disposal can be incredibly advantageous. Now, let’s move on to the essential steps of planting ginger to ensure a successful harvest.

Choosing The Right Ginger Rhizomes

Selecting high-quality ginger rhizomes is crucial for a successful planting experience. When choosing rhizomes, look for the following characteristics:

Freshness

Opt for fresh and plump ginger rhizomes. Avoid rhizomes that are dry, shriveled, or moldy.

Sprouting Buds

Look for ginger rhizomes with visible sprouting buds, also known as eyes. These buds will eventually grow into new ginger plants.

Reputable Source

Purchase ginger rhizomes from a reputable garden center, nursery, or online supplier. This ensures that you are starting with healthy and viable planting material.

Organic Sources

Whenever possible, choose organic ginger rhizomes. Organic produce is typically free from synthetic chemicals or pesticides, promoting a healthier start for your ginger plants.

Once you have obtained quality ginger rhizomes, it’s time to prepare the soil for planting.

Preparing The Soil For Planting

Ginger thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH. Here’s how to prepare the soil for planting ginger:

Soil Type

Loamy Soil: Ginger grows best in loamy soil, which is a combination of sand, silt, and clay. Loamy soil provides a balance of drainage and moisture retention, creating an optimal environment for ginger growth.

Acidic pH: The ideal soil pH for ginger cultivation ranges from 5.5 to 6.5. You can test the pH of your soil using a simple pH testing kit, available at garden centers.

Organic Matter

Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil. This improves soil structure, fertility, and microbial activity, creating a conducive environment for ginger to thrive.

Drainage

Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. If your soil has poor drainage, consider adding organic material to improve its structure.

After preparing the soil, it’s time to proceed with planting the ginger rhizomes.

Planting Ginger

The process of planting ginger involves creating the right environment for the rhizomes to take root and sprout. Follow these steps for successful ginger planting:

Burying The Rhizomes

1. Preparing the Rhizomes: Before planting, cut larger rhizomes into smaller pieces, making sure each piece has at least one visible sprouting bud. This allows for multiple ginger plants to grow from a single rhizome.

2. Shallow Trenches or Pots: In the prepared soil, create shallow trenches if planting directly in the ground. For container planting, choose pots with adequate drainage holes.

3. Spacing: Place the ginger rhizomes about 6-8 inches apart if planting in the ground, or space them evenly in a pot, ensuring each rhizome has room to grow.

4. Bud Orientation: Position the rhizomes with the buds facing up. Bury them just below the soil surface, covering them with approximately 1-2 inches of soil.

Watering

After planting the ginger rhizomes, water the soil thoroughly to promote initial root establishment. Ensure that the soil remains consistently moist, but not waterlogged, throughout the growing period.

Container Considerations

If you choose to plant ginger in containers, select pots that are at least 12 inches deep to accommodate the rhizome growth. Use a well-draining potting mix to maintain adequate moisture without waterlogging.

With the ginger rhizomes planted, the next step is to provide the optimal growing conditions for their development.

Optimal Growing Conditions For Ginger

Creating the right growing environment is essential for the successful cultivation of ginger. Consider the following factors to provide optimal conditions for your ginger plants:

Sunlight

Ginger plants thrive in dappled sunlight or partial shade. Direct sunlight can be too harsh, especially during the hottest parts of the day, and may scorch the leaves.

Temperature

Ginger prefers warm and humid conditions. It thrives in temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). If growing ginger in cooler climates, consider planting in a greenhouse or providing additional heat sources.

Moisture

Ginger requires consistent moisture throughout its growing period. Ensure that the soil remains evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Mulching can help retain soil moisture while suppressing weed growth.

Humidity

Maintaining a humid environment is important for ginger plants, especially during the initial stages of growth. You can create humidity by misting the plants regularly or using a humidifier if growing indoors.

Protection From Cold

If you live in a region with cooler temperatures, consider planting ginger in containers that can be moved indoors during the colder months. Alternatively, provide protective coverings or insulation to shield the plants from extreme cold.

With the right growing conditions in place, your ginger plants will begin to develop and require ongoing care as they mature.

Ongoing Care For Ginger Plants

As your ginger plants continue to grow, there are several key care practices to implement for their optimal development and eventual harvest:

Watering

Maintain consistent soil moisture by watering your ginger plants regularly. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot, and ensure that any excess water can drain freely from the soil.

Fertilization

During the growing season, apply a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for the ginger plants. Look for a fertilizer with a formulation such as 10-10-10, and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application.

Pest And Disease Management

Monitor your ginger plants for signs of pests or diseases. Common pests that may affect ginger include aphids, mites, and root-knot nematodes. Use organic pest control methods when possible to minimize chemical exposure.

Supportive Structures

As the ginger plants grow, provide support structures like stakes or trellises, particularly if they begin to lean or sprawl. This helps keep the plants upright and may prevent rhizomes from becoming dislodged or damaged.

Mulching

Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the ginger plants to conserve moisture, suppress weed growth, and maintain a consistent soil temperature.

By implementing these care practices, you can support the healthy growth and development of your ginger plants, ultimately leading to a successful harvest.

Harvesting Ginger

Patience is key when it comes to harvesting ginger. It typically takes about 8-10 months for ginger rhizomes to reach maturity. Here’s how to harvest your homegrown ginger:

Plant Maturity

Wait until the ginger plants have fully matured before harvesting. Mature plants will exhibit tall, leafy growth and may begin to turn yellow as they reach the end of their growing cycle.

Harvesting Process

1. Cease Watering: About a week before harvesting, stop watering the ginger plants. This helps the rhizomes dry out slightly, making them easier to harvest.

2. Digging up the Rhizomes: Use a garden fork or spade to carefully dig up the ginger rhizomes. Be gentle to avoid damaging the rhizomes during the extraction process.

3. Rhizome Inspection: Examine the harvested rhizomes for size, color, and overall health. Healthy ginger rhizomes will be plump and firm, with a light brown skin.

4. Rhizome Storage: Rinse the harvested rhizomes to remove excess soil, and allow them to air-dry for a few hours. Store the ginger rhizomes in a cool, dry place until you are ready to use them.

Regrowing Ginger

As you harvest your ginger rhizomes, consider setting aside a portion for regrowth. Select healthy, plump rhizomes and store them in a cool, dry place until the next planting season. These stored rhizomes can be used to propagate new ginger plants, allowing you to continue the cycle of cultivation.

By following these steps, you can harvest your homegrown ginger and enjoy the satisfaction of using fresh, flavorful produce in your culinary creations and home remedies.

Planting ginger is a rewarding endeavor that allows you to enjoy the numerous health benefits and culinary uses of this versatile spice. By selecting quality rhizomes, preparing the soil, and providing optimal growing conditions, you can successfully cultivate your own ginger plants. Throughout the growing period, ongoing care practices, such as watering, fertilization, and pest management, are essential to support healthy plant development. Finally, with patience and attention to plant maturity, you can harvest your homegrown ginger and continue the cycle of cultivation for future seasons. Whether used in cooking, teas, or natural remedies, homegrown ginger adds a fresh and flavorful touch to your daily life.

Planting Ginger In Containers

Before we dive into the details of how to plant ginger, let’s understand a little more about this versatile plant. Ginger is a perennial herb that belongs to the Zingiberaceae family. It grows from an underground stem called a rhizome, which is the part of the plant that we commonly use as a spice. The rhizome has a pungent and spicy flavor that adds a unique taste to various dishes.

Ginger plants reach a height of about 3 to 4 feet and produce long, narrow leaves and yellow-green flowers. They thrive in warm and humid climates and need partial shade to grow successfully. Ginger is usually propagated through its rhizomes, which can be purchased from nurseries or obtained from a mature ginger plant. Now, let’s explore the two main methods of planting ginger: in containers and in the ground.

Growing ginger in containers is an excellent option for gardeners with limited space or in regions with cooler climates where the plant cannot thrive outdoors year-round. Here’s how you can successfully plant ginger in containers:

1. Choose the Right Container: Select a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide. Ginger roots require ample space to grow and develop without being crowded. Ensure that the container has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging.

2. Prepare the Potting Mix: Create a well-draining potting mix by combining equal parts of fertile garden soil, compost, and perlite or sand. This mixture will provide the ginger plant with the necessary nutrients and drainage.

3. Soak the Rhizomes: Before planting, soak the ginger rhizomes in water overnight. This will help to soften the outer layer and promote faster germination.

4. Plant the Rhizomes: Fill the container with the prepared potting mix, leaving about an inch of space at the top. Place the soaked rhizomes on the surface of the soil, making sure that the buds face up. Set the rhizomes about 2 to 4 inches apart to allow adequate space for growth.

5. Cover with Soil: Gently cover the rhizomes with about an inch of soil, ensuring that they are completely buried. Water the container thoroughly to settle the soil.

6. Place in a Warm Location: Ginger plants require warmth to grow, so choose a location that receives ample sunlight and maintains a temperature of around 75 to 85°F (24 to 29°C). You can also keep the container indoors near a sunny window.

7. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Ginger plants need regular watering, especially during the growing season. Ensure that the container has good drainage to prevent water accumulation, which can cause root rot.

8. Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release organic fertilizer once a month to provide essential nutrients to the ginger plant. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for the correct dosage.

9. Managing Growth: As the ginger plant grows, it will produce long, green shoots called ginger tops. Trim these shoots regularly to maintain the plant’s height and prevent overcrowding.

10. Harvesting: Ginger can be harvested when the plant is mature, usually after 8 to 10 months. Gently dig up the rhizomes, being careful not to damage them. Remove the desired amount of ginger and replant the remaining rhizomes for future growth.

Planting Ginger In The Ground

If you live in a warm climate with well-draining soil, planting ginger directly in the ground can yield a bountiful harvest. Here’s a step-by-step guide to planting ginger in the ground:

1. Choose the Right Location: Ginger thrives in partial shade, so select a site that receives some shade during the day. Ensure that the soil drains well, as ginger will not tolerate waterlogged conditions.

2. Prepare the Soil: Dig a hole that is approximately 12 inches deep and wide. Loosen the soil and amend it with plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. This will enrich the soil and improve its moisture-retaining capacity.

3. Soak the Rhizomes: Just like when planting in containers, soak the ginger rhizomes in water overnight to facilitate germination.

4. Plant the Rhizomes: Place the soaked rhizomes in the prepared hole, making sure that the buds face up. Space the rhizomes about 6 to 8 inches apart to allow for proper growth. Cover the rhizomes with soil and gently press down to ensure good soil contact.

5. Watering: After planting, water the ginger thoroughly to settle the soil and initiate growth. Keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season, providing regular irrigation if necessary.

6. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the ginger plants. Mulching helps to conserve moisture in the soil, suppress weed growth, and protect the rhizomes from extreme temperature fluctuations.

7. Fertilization: Apply a balanced organic fertilizer, such as compost or well-rotted manure, at the time of planting. Repeat the application every few months to provide the ginger plants with essential nutrients.

8. Controlling Weeds: Regularly remove any weeds that may compete with the ginger plants for nutrients and water. Be careful not to disturb the shallow roots of the ginger while weeding.

9. Controlling Pests and Diseases: Ginger plants are generally low-maintenance and relatively pest-free. However, some common pests that may attack ginger include aphids, spider mites, and root-knot nematodes. Keep an eye out for signs of infestation and take appropriate measures, such as using organic insecticides or practicing crop rotation, to control these pests.

10. Harvesting: Ginger plants are typically ready for harvest after 8 to 10 months. The leaves will begin to turn yellow, indicating maturity. Gently dig up the rhizomes, being careful not to damage them. Harvest the desired amount of ginger and save some rhizomes for replanting.

Watering And Fertilizing Ginger Plants

Proper watering and fertilization are crucial for the healthy growth of ginger plants. Here are some essential tips to ensure that your ginger plants receive adequate hydration and nutrients:

1. Watering: Ginger plants require consistent moisture to thrive. Keep the soil evenly moist throughout the growing season, but avoid overwatering. To determine if the soil needs watering, check the top few inches for dryness. Water deeply whenever the soil feels dry to the touch.

2. Drainage: Good drainage is essential for ginger plants as they do not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Ensure that the planting containers or the ground has adequate drainage to prevent water accumulation, which can lead to root rot.

3. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the ginger plants to conserve moisture in the soil and reduce water evaporation. Mulching also helps to suppress weed growth and maintain a more stable soil temperature.

4. Fertilization: Ginger plants benefit from regular applications of organic fertilizers to ensure optimal growth and development. Use a balanced fertilizer or compost rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to provide essential nutrients. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually once a month during the growing season.

5. Compost Tea: To enhance the nutrient content of the soil, consider using compost tea as a natural fertilizer. Compost tea is made by steeping compost in water and then applying the nutrient-rich solution to the plants. It provides a gentle and slow-release source of nutrients, promoting healthier plant growth.

6. Organic Matter: Incorporate organic matter, such as compost, into the soil before planting ginger. Organic matter improves the soil’s fertility, water-holding capacity, and nutrient availability. Additionally, it helps to break up heavy soils and facilitates root development.

7. Top Dressing: Periodically add a layer of compost or well-rotted manure around the base of the ginger plants. This top dressing will gradually release nutrients into the soil, providing an ongoing source of nourishment throughout the growing season.

Controlling Pests And Diseases In Ginger Plants

While ginger plants are generally resilient and pest-resistant, they may occasionally encounter some common pests and diseases. Here are some preventive measures and treatments to keep your ginger plants healthy:

1. Aphids: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can infest ginger plants and cause leaf curling and distortion. To control aphids, you can apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to affected plants. Additionally, encouraging natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings, can help control the aphid population.

2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from plants, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Monitor your ginger plants regularly for signs of spider mite infestation, such as webbing or speckled leaves. To treat spider mites, rinse the plants with a strong jet of water to dislodge the mites. You can also use miticidal soap or neem oil spray for effective control.

3. Root-Knot Nematodes: Root-knot nematodes are microscopic worms that infest the roots of ginger plants, causing swelling and galling. To control nematode infestation, practice crop rotation by not planting ginger in the same location for at least two years. Additionally, you can choose nematode-resistant ginger varieties and regularly incorporate organic matter into the soil to improve its health.

4. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease characterized by dark lesions on the leaves of ginger plants. To prevent leaf spot, provide adequate spacing between the plants to promote air circulation. Avoid overhead watering, as the disease thrives in humid conditions. If leaf spot does occur, remove and destroy the infected leaves and apply a copper-based fungicide to prevent further spread.

5. Rhizome Rot: Rhizome rot is a serious disease that affects the ginger rhizomes, causing softening and decay. To prevent rhizome rot, ensure that the soil has good drainage and avoid overwatering. If the rhizomes show signs of rotting, it is best to discard them and replant with healthy rhizomes.

Harvesting Ginger

After months of patiently nurturing your ginger plants, it’s time to reap the rewards. Here’s how you can harvest ginger:

1. Check for Maturity: Ginger plants are typically mature and ready for harvest after 8 to 10 months of growth. Look for signs that the plants are reaching maturity, such as yellowing leaves and drying foliage.

2. Digging Up the Rhizomes: Carefully loosen the soil around the base of the ginger plants using a garden fork or spade. Be gentle to avoid damaging the rhizomes. Lift the rhizomes out of the soil, removing any excess soil attached to them.

3. Selective Harvesting: Depending on your needs, you can choose to harvest a few rhizomes or the entire plant. If you are only harvesting a few rhizomes, leave the remaining ones in the ground for continued growth.

4. Replanting: After harvesting, select healthy and plump rhizomes for replanting. These can be saved for the next growing season. Follow the same planting instructions provided earlier to ensure successful regrowth.

5. Storing: To store the harvested ginger, wash and dry the rhizomes thoroughly. Store them in a cool, dry place or refrigerate them in a plastic bag. Properly stored ginger can last for several weeks or even months.

Growing ginger can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Whether you choose to plant ginger in containers or in the ground, following the proper planting and care techniques outlined in this article will help you cultivate healthy and productive ginger plants. From selecting the right container or location to harvesting and storing the rhizomes, each step plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of your ginger-growing endeavor. So, gather your gardening tools and get ready to enjoy the aromatic and flavorful rewards of homegrown ginger. Happy planting!

Storing And Using Fresh Ginger

Ginger, or Zingiber officinale, is not only a versatile and delicious spice but also a beautiful perennial plant that can be easily grown at home. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, planting ginger can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Before planting ginger, it is important to know how to properly store and use fresh ginger. Fresh ginger can last up to three weeks when stored in the refrigerator. To store ginger, wrap it in a paper towel or a damp cloth and place it in a plastic bag. Make sure that the ginger is dry before wrapping it, as moisture can cause it to rot.

Using fresh ginger is easy and can add depth and flavor to a variety of dishes. Ginger can be grated, sliced, minced, or chopped, and used in both sweet and savory dishes. Grated ginger can be used in tea, marinades, stir-fries, and curries. Sliced ginger can be used to infuse flavor into soups, stews, and sauces. Minced or chopped ginger can be used in baking or as a spice rub.

Propagating Ginger Plants

Ginger plants can be propagated by either rhizomes or seeds. Rhizomes are underground stems that produce roots and shoots. Ginger rhizomes can be purchased from garden centers or online, or they can be obtained by asking a friend or neighbor who is growing ginger. Follow these steps to propagate ginger plants from rhizomes:

1. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has good drainage. Fill the pot with a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter.

2. Soak the ginger rhizomes in water overnight, or for a few hours, before planting.

3. Plant the ginger rhizomes in the pot with the buds facing up and cover them with 1-2 inches of soil.

4. Water the pot thoroughly and place it in a warm and humid location. Ginger plants prefer temperatures between 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit.

5. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, and avoid overwatering.

6. Ginger plants take around 10-12 months to mature. During this time, they will produce shoots and leaves. When the leaves turn yellow and dry up, the ginger is ready to harvest.

7. To harvest, gently dig out the ginger rhizomes with a garden fork or trowel. Remove the soil and cut off the stems and leaves.

8. Wash the ginger rhizomes under running water and store them in a cool, dry place until ready to use.

Troubleshooting Common Ginger Planting Problems

Ginger plants are relatively easy to grow, but they can face certain challenges along the way. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Yellowing Leaves: Ginger plants may develop yellowing leaves due to overwatering, underwatering, or pests. To remedy this, adjust the watering schedule and check for pests like spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs.

• Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can cause root rot in ginger plants. To prevent this, make sure the pot has good drainage and water the plant only when the topsoil is dry to the touch.

• Fungal Infections: Ginger plants are susceptible to fungal infections like powdery mildew or leaf spot. To prevent this, avoid overcrowding, excess moisture, and ensure proper ventilation.

• Pests: Ginger plants may attract pests like spider mites, aphids or mealybugs. To remedy this, use insecticidal soap spray or neem oil, and wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove pests and debris.

Delicious Recipes Using Fresh Ginger

Fresh ginger can add a unique and delicious flavor to a variety of dishes. Here are some recipes that use fresh ginger:

• Ginger Tea: In a saucepan, bring water, grated ginger, and honey to a boil. Simmer for 10 minutes, then strain and serve hot.

• Stir-Fry: In a wok or skillet, stir-fry diced chicken, vegetables, and sliced ginger in oil. Add soy sauce and cornstarch mixture for a thickened sauce.

• Gingerbread Cookies: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, salt, butter, egg, and molasses. Mix until the dough forms and then cool in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to create shapes. Bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes.

Conclusion

Growing and planting ginger can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when the harvest is ready to use in your favorite dishes. By properly storing and using fresh ginger, propagating ginger plants, and troubleshooting common problems, you can grow a healthy and thriving ginger plant. Don’t forget to try out new recipes and enjoy the delicious taste and aroma of fresh ginger.

FAQS

What Kind Of Soil Is Best For Planting Ginger?

Ginger grows best in a loose, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It also prefers a slightly acidic pH of 6.0-6.5.

When Is The Best Time To Plant Ginger?

Ginger is best planted in the early spring after the last frost, but it can also be planted in late summer or early fall in warmer climates.

How Do I Prepare The Soil For Planting Ginger?

Before planting, loosen the soil and remove any weeds or stones. It is also recommended to amend the soil with compost or aged manure for added nutrients.

How Deep Should I Plant The Ginger Root?

Ginger should be planted shallowly, with the top of the rhizome (thick, underground stem) just barely covered with soil. It is important to not plant it too deep, as this can inhibit growth.

How Often Should I Water My Ginger Plant?

Ginger prefers consistent moisture, but it should not be over-watered. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, and make sure the soil never dries out completely. Using a layer of mulch can also help retain moisture in the soil.