Question
What is the best time of day to water a vegetable garden?  I have heard early in the morning and late at night.  I have also learned about putting Marigolds in the garden to keep out some bugs,  what are some other things I could plant to help keep bugs out?  Thank you for your help.

Answer
Dear Jody:

The best time to water your vegetable garden is in the early pre-dawn hours.  Early watering is beneficial because the sun isn't present to evaporate the moisture and the soil and root systems reap the benefits.  Also, after the sun rises, it will dry away the leafy foilage discouraging fungi from dampness that would otherwise occur if you watered after sunset.

Marigolds are excellent plants to deter unwanted bug pests from your garden. I'm referring you to an excellent web page for additional information on companion planting that should be very helpful.  The address is:

    http://www.organicgardening.com/feature/0,7518,s1-5-19-108,00.html

Regards,

Mack Jean
AllExperts
Master Gardener
Tennessee