This has certainly been a season of challenges for the gardener. The cold wet spring made our planting of annuals late, and then the intense heat really put stress on them. The mulch (2” deep) has really kept the roots cool and moist. Remember if you water, do it early in then morning so the plants can dry during the day. This cuts back on mold and mildew. This was an excellent year to use the systemic fertilizer. With the early rains roses sucked the mixture up through the stems, cutting back on black spot and aphids. This is the last week to cut back the mums. After July 4 they will be producing the buds for fall blooms. Enjoy your garden each day and God bless!