During the dog days of summer, there's plenty to do in the garden. With a bit of planning, you can make the best use of your time by prioritizing what needs to be done. Schedule regular time to check off those chores on your to-do list so that you don't get overwhelmed. And don't forget to stop and smell the roses! Grill up some dinner, invite friends, relax and enjoy your outdoor oasis.

Be waterwise

Mulch beds with organic matter to suppress weeds and help retain moisture. Use drip irrigation when possible, and water early or late in the day—particularly when using sprinklers or watering wands—to minimize evaporation. For more ideas on how to make your garden more water efficient, check out these water wise articles.