There are some plants that are so showy in the garden that they are worth budgeting a little extra summer water. They really get your attention. That plant for me is the hydrangea.

Be careful what you wish for … it might be more than you can handle. That thought immediately came to mind that late afternoon while staring down the hallway of my apartment building.

The long period between storms has brought nice weather for beachgoers and anglers in pursuit of perch. Wintertime perch fishing can be a hot pick and this year it is an exceptional choice. Barred surfperch have been plentiful this winter and now is the time.

Looking out the window on a rainy day, I forget that spot way back in the shade in the back of the garden will be bone dry come summer. It’s too far away to water conveniently very often with a hose, and extending the irrigation for just that one area under the trees in the shade is not practical.