This year, more than ever, with reduced rainfall and the need to conserve water, aerating now through early summer is an important step in the care of your lawn. With aeration, the soil is opened up to allow water to enter more easily. In addition, proper aeration avoids run-off which in turn, improves the effectiveness of watering. Aeration pays for itself through your savings in water. It will last 3 to 4 months, so now is the time to get it done - while everything is beginning to dry out.

Although aeration does not last more than 3 or 4 months, it is the best method for managing thatch, soil compaction and...we can't say it enough...SAVING WATER!

Ornamental grasses come in a variety of sizes, shapes and textures. Many of these grasses tend to be taller and bushier than other plants making them able to "catch the wind" and provide movement in your landscape. The true upside of these plants is that many of them are able to endure a wide variety of heat, extreme cold and drought conditions with low maintenance. In addition, many grasses are resistant to insects. So when you're looking for some ideas of what to plant...consider these:

Fountain Grass - Warm season

Horsetail - A low-water plant ideal for xeriscaping