Mulch to Conserve Moisture and Suppress Weeds
A 2–3 inch layer of straw, shredded leaves, or composted bark helps keep soil evenly moist, which is crucial for preventing tomato blossom end rot and pepper flower drop. Mulch also shades weed seeds, so you spend less time hoeing and more time snipping ripe fruit!
Be careful not to pile mulch against the stems—that can invite collar rot. Leave a small bare circle around each plant’s base. I love how mulch maintains that steady moisture level, even during heatwaves when my garden feels like an oven!