With dry summer days on the way, and water budgets on the horizon, install some rain collecting devices. It can be as simple as putting buckets out or installing some barrels to your down spout.

I’ve been collecting water for some time and use it a lot in the summer months. There are so many ways and if you choose to do one you are on the right track. We have been getting so much rain lately so filling up a barrel wouldn’t take long at all.

If you choose to make one yourself you will need the following: a 33-gallon or larger barrel, water valve, screen. Install the valve at the base of the barrel. The screen goes at the top to allow the water to go through and keeping the mosquitos and debris out. This is the simplest kind to make.

There are some down spout pieces that can convert your straight piece to go into your barrel. If you like to have more than one, install water converter to the side to allow water to go into another barrel once the first one is full. Any extra water can then flows from the barrel to somewhere away from the house.

If you like more detail on rain barrels, do Google search. The library would be another place to find a book on the subject, or call the Master Gardeners to see about getting information on rain collection.

On the subject of rain, I noticed many plants getting weighed down and even destroying plant parts. I love having rain, but in some cases, I don’t.

So what we need to do is let things dry up a bit. Pruning season is here, so when things dry up, do some investigating. Stake up some plants and put your CSI hat on.

Reader question:

Q. What do I need to be doing with my roses right now?

A. Have you fed your roses yet? I like to do some thinning to allow more airflow. It is very important to destroy any leaves. Do not compost them in your pile. Always keep the plant clean. Use the IPM method and always make sure you battle the right battles. A healthy plant will always take care of any major infestations.