
CLIMATE RESILIENT GARDEN: Moisture Retention
One of the emerging insights from our participants’ research has been the effectiveness of mulching in retaining moisture in garden beds. While this concept had been quietly simmering in the background during the construction of our keyhole garden, an opportunity arose on our other site, giving us the perfect chance to test it in practice.


We had recently filled the pallet collars lining our squash arch with manure, but we quickly noticed how dry it was, raising concerns about the health of our newly transplanted Turks Turban squash. Drawing from our research, we decided to trial straw as a mulch. Conveniently, we had straw bales on hand in our Kitchen Plot poly tunnel, where they serve as seating. We gathered some, spread a layer over the manure, and gave it a thorough soaking.

The next day’s inspection revealed promising results. Despite the high temperatures, the soil beneath the straw remained cool and moist, a clear contrast to the previous dryness. While we’re aware that straw mulch comes with its own limitations, we’ll be closely monitoring our squashes to assess its long-term effectiveness.

The goal of Blue Heart is to try out innovative ways to predict and mitigate the impact of flooding in Eastbourne and southern Wealden. This will benefit local people, businesses and the environment. What they learn will also help inform projects around the UK and beyond.
Rooted Climate Resilient Garden Moisture Retention Updates
At Rooted Community Food, we believe that staying informed is just as important as growing food. Our climate related news posts keep our community updated on allotment sessions, sustainable gardening, local food movements, and important events that shape our shared food-growing experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, our climate resilient garden updates provide practical insights, inspiration, and valuable resources to help you thrive. Every news article is crafted to reflect our mission—supporting sustainable food systems, strengthening community bonds, and empowering individuals through growing.
Rooted Community Food | Nature Therapy Tags | Eastbourne
Rooted Community Food | Sustainable Living Tags | Eastbourne
Why Soil Moisture Retention News Matters
Food is more than just nourishment—it’s culture, sustainability, and connection. That’s why we use our news section to highlight progress, events, community efforts, and shared knowledge. Regular updates allow us to:
Being surrounded by nature in Spring reduces anxiety, boosts mental clarity, and strengthens social connections. There’s something special about working with soil, nurturing plants, and seeing the results of collective effort. Food feels more meaningful when grown together, shared, and enjoyed within a supportive community.
Celebrate seasonal growing tips that help you maximize your allotment harvest.
Announce new initiatives and funding opportunities that support urban farming projects.
Share inspiring stories from volunteers who make a difference in the community.
Provide expert insights into sustainable growing and gardening techniques in Spring.
Raise awareness about food accessibility and ethical consumption.
With each post, we aim to keep you engaged with Rooted’s journey while offering useful tips, exciting updates, and ways to get involved.
Get Involved & Stay Updated with our Climate Resilient Garden Moisture Retention Issues
We want you to be part of our growing movement! Whether you volunteer, donate, or simply follow our journey, your involvement makes an impact.
At Rooted Community Food, our news isn’t just about information—it’s about inspiration, education, and action. Stay connected, stay involved, and let’s grow together!
Join Rooted Today!
Interested in becoming a Rooted volunteer? Want to take part in volunteer gardening or help grow food sustainably? Join our grassroots food movement today by emailing our Project Lead, Sally Ross.
Start growing your own vegetables, engage in our Harvest Hub donations to local food banks and community fridges, and become part of a thriving allotment-to-table community dedicated to making a difference.

