Gardening season is just over the horizon. It's time to get out the tools and pull on the gloves. Here are a few tips that are sure to keep your lawn and garden looking simply wonderful.

	To reduce evaporation, water your lawn in the early morning or evening. Most lawns need about 1 inch of water each week, depending on the soil type. If the weather is hot, increase the amount to 1 inch of water every three days.
	Your soil is ready for planting when you grab a handful and it crumbles. If it forms a ball, it's still too wet to start gardening.
	Make your job easier by planting plants with the same water needs together.
	Avoid using insecticides by planting marigolds, basil, mint, chives, onions, and chrysanthemums near or in your garden. Secretions from these and many other plants act as a natural insect repellent.
	Use leaves, grass clippings, coffee grounds, and tea bags to form a compost pile, and use it to enrich your soil. For best results, chop elements into small pieces before adding them to the pile.
	Try tying up your plants with old panty hose. They're nearly invisible and will stretch a little as the plant grows.
	Plant pansies for an early spring pick-me-up. They'll withstand cold weather�?/FONT>even snow�?/FONT>and bloom steadily through the spring.