Q. I am so unhappy with the way my gardens look this year. I realize that lack of water and high heat are probably the cause. But is there anything I can do about the appearance?

A. The importance of soil preparation has become very apparent this year. Incorporation of organic material to improve our soils is vital. Mulching the soil surface to help retain moisture and keep the soil cool is critical.

Try not to look at the disasters of this year but to look at the successes. Those plants that thrive in heat and dryness have never looked so good. Russian sage, blue mist spiraea, yarrow, blanket flower and Coreopsis are beautiful this year. Potentilla, echinacea and lavender are also winners in the heat.

Congratulate yourself for having the foresight to plant these survivors. Brag about the plants that lived and thrived this year and plan to use more of these plants in the future. There are many plants that do well in these conditions.

Q: What can I do about the many spiders that seem to be coming into my house?

A: Spiders tend to move into homes with the onset of cooler weather. Make sure all windows are sealed securely to prevent their entrance. As spiders are an important beneficial insect, capture the spider indoors and place it back outside. If needed, they can be controlled by many common household insecticide aerosols or by spraying or painting residual insecticides in corners and along baseboards. Be sure to read and follow all instructions on the label.

Gardening and Insect Fact Sheets are available on-line by clicking HERE.

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This page updated:  September 28, 2006