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Typically, under normal, non-drought conditions, you should water twice a week for at least 20-30 minutes for each zone. One low-tech way to see if your soil is too dry or is wet enough, is the “screwdriver” test. Use a screwdriver with a 6 inch shaft. Press the shaft into the soil. If it is difficult to press all the way into the ground, then your yard could use some more water. • Should I fertilize my yard myself? If you are the type that loves to get your hand dirty, and get into the de- tails, then you may thrive on doing it yourself. Han- dling your own turf treatments and fertilizations can be detailed and time consuming. Long ago, when I looked into doing it myself, I found that it would be less expensive to pay someone to treat my yard, than to do it myself. We recommend that you do your re- search. There are plenty of very competent, licensed professionals that can help you walk through that de- cision. • What about trimming my shrubs, should I do that in the spring or the fall? Unless you’re a seasoned vet- eran, we recommend that before pruning or trimming your shrubs, you research which plants should be pruned, at what time of the year. If in doubt, call a certified professional. • For additional information, you can visit the Alabama Cooperative Extension System at www.aces.edu. ^ Find us on Facebook and Instagram JUNE 2018 21