1.   Gritty soil had got under her nails.

2.   Because most of the roots are shallow and can dry out easily, make sure you water before the soil gets too dry.

3.   Because they live in the film of water between soil particles, nematodes will die if the soil gets too dry.

4.   Water again when the soil is dry to the touch, but do not let the soil get so dry that the plant wilts.