A tip from the test garden

Keep edibles well-irrigated with one of the following methods. (Use a bubbler and a gentle stream of water.)

Furrows 3 to 6 inches deep and up to 12 inches wide help irrigate straight rows on level ground; create them by running a hoe through the soil down either side of a newly planted row of crops, no more than 3 to 4 inches from the plants.

Basins channel water directly to roots of large vegetables such as peppers, squash, and tomatoes. Dig a circular depression in the soil around the plant, at least several inches wider than the plant and 3 inches deep. On level ground, link adjoining basins as pictured above to simplify watering.