I was only pointing out that peat based compost is not the best for retaining moisture. Large volumes of compost will stay moist longer but if the pot is sitting on top of a water reservoir, you need less compost, in fact, less compost means that the plant tap roots will get to the all important water supply sooner, but then it is more important to make sure the plant is getting enough nutrients.

The square foot garden system has had a lot of press over the years and seems to have a lot of sense in it. I've been meaning to have a go for several years now but never got round to it. Esp. since my garden stays very wet, raised beds are the way to go. How about using car tyres as raised bed walls? Just a thought.