Be waterwise: keep things growing while we wait for rain
It's pretty dry countrywide and there seems to be no sign of a wet let-up. So make sure that water is being well-used in your garden.
Remove all weeds and any spent plants that are drawing moisture from the soil. Cover all bare soil with mulch - newspaper, cardboard, seaweed, old wool carpet - anything that will biodegrade whilst keeping in soil moisture.
Water in the early morning or at dusk to save on evaporation (two damn fine times to be out in the garden) and water at the base of plants to ensure they get the full benefit.
If you are on tank water and have a finite supply then you may have to choose more productive plants like pumpkin and squash over others that will only deliver minor returns.
Young and shallow rooted plants with large leaves and seedlings are most vulnerable. Use shade cloth, cloches or net curtains to shield these plants from intense mid-day sunshine.
