Have a south facing garden, ok narrow strip of land between front of
house and road, that dries out very fast in the summer.

Peat dosen`t seem to be regarded as at all enviro friendly, think peat
substitute dries out too quick in this location was thinking of silica
gel added to soil.

Often sold as crytsal spring or wonder well or whatever, its the gel
that can absorb many times its own weight in water, but does it
release it back to the plants or does it just absorb it itself?

Any experience from the panel greatfully received.

Thanks
Adam