You just can’t make some people happy!  A few days ago we were praying for rain.  Now, I hear people wishing for less afternoon showers.  It is best that man does not have control of the weather! 

As the hot days of July slowly pass, there are a few tips to keep in mind as you enjoy your lawn and garden.

• During hot, July weather, be sure to mow your lawn to the appropriate height.  This reduces water loss and helps lower soil temperatures.

• A grayish cast over lawns can be caused by dull or improperly adjusted mower blades that shred grass rather than cut it.

• Bagworms on evergreens have been reported.  If only a few are on a plant, you may be able to pick them off.

• Get a second bloom from faded annuals by cutting them back to approximately half their height, then fertilize.

• Although tomatoes are self-pollinating, they need movement to transfer pollen.  If it is hot and calm for several days, gently shake plants for assured pollen transfer and fruit set.  Hot temperatures can also interfere with blossom set.

• For the best flavor, pick ripe tomatoes as needed; favor peaks within three minutes of picking.  If you must wait to use garden-fresh tomatoes, don’t refrigerate them.  Fruit texture and some aroma compounds deteriorate quickly in the cold.

• You can prolong the storage life of fresh okra by dipping it in 500 ppm of ascorbic acid for five minutes.  This concentration is approximately the same as dissolving 500 mg of vitamin C in a quart of water.  Then air dry and pack in plastic bags for storage of up to one month in your refrigerator.

• After harvesting your strawberries, remove excess runners and any unhealthy crowns.  This will reduce disease problems.

• Fireblight on apple and pear trees can be identified by looking for blackened twigs and branches.  The disease will spread and kill the tree if not controlled.  Remove all blighted twigs, cutting eight inches below the infected area.  Disinfect pruning tools after each cut to prevent spreading the disease.  Dip the blades in a solution of one part household bleach and nine parts water.

• Continue to look for Japanese beetles on anything from roses to beans.  Control may be needed.

• Visit the Dawson County Produce Market.  The market is open each Wednesday and Saturday mornings.  Items sold at last week’s market included:  corn, beans, okra, tomatoes, and blackberries.  Call the Extension Office (706) 265-2442 for more information.