[partsguy]

Excellent article. Here's a couple of things I have found make my gardening experience easier and more economical:
Put all the critical plants (for me, tomatoes, peppers, and melons) near one another and then snake a soaker hose around the base of them. I leave it there all season and when we haven't had a good rain in a few days I hook up the hose and just crack the faucet. A couple of hours will provide enough watering for a couple of days.
Also, I use cut grass clippings for mulch. Spread 2-3 inches thick. It will turn brown after a few days and mat down somewhat. It still allows water and air to penetrate and keeps the weeds to a minimum. Best of all, it's free.