Gardening

Then I can just fill the reservoir with rain barrel water. They will have the constant moisture they need and I can move them to the shady side of the deck during really hot weather.

I like straw mulch best too. Some years I use shredded leaves since I always have a ton of them, but that does not work as well.

I am still contemplating what to do about the raised beds. The wood is rotting so I either need to rebuild or get rid of them. I am bad about maintaining the garden, particularly in August. It might be better to down size and go mostly container. I could also put them in the driveway. Two benefits to that. I will see them several times a day as I go in and out, so less likely to neglect, and the chickens will not be able to get at them when they free range. Hmmmm.....