It's hot and dry, look for plants that are wilting and losing leaves. If you catch it early the plant can be saved. It may be necessary to increase the watering times during the dry months of May, June, and July.

Cold winter months will take a toll on some of your plants. The plants we use are native to the southwest and will survive Tucson winters with ease. But they may not make it with all their leaves. During a hard freeze some plants will lose all there leaves, making it look dead. But give it some time, as long as it is getting water it will bounce back during spring.

If your flag emitters seem to be dripping slowly or not at all, it usually means just a clog in the head. This problem is easily fixed. First make sure your irrigation system is on, by either turning it on manually or during its normal running time. Second, grab the emitter and twist off the flag portion from the top. Once off, a steady stream of water should shoot from the top. Cover that stream with your index finger, which will cause the stream of water to shoot from where the water drips out. This almost always unclogs the emitter. Before you reinsert the top take a few seconds and give the plant a good soaking, it probably needs it. Finally, twist the flag top back into the top of the emitter. You should immediately see an increase in the flow of water.

Most of time what people call "dead plants" are simply plants that have dried out slightly due to a clogged emitter or insufficient watering schedule. Before you read this poor foliage its last rights, check it to make sure it is really dead. This can be done by slightly bending a few of its branches. If the braches snap off easily then it's a goner. However if the branches are pliable and bend before they break, then give it another shot it's probably going to make it. But there are a few things you need to do to help it recover. First, give it a good soaking with the hose. Then check the emitter to see if it's clogged (see clogged emitter section). Finally, check the clock to make sure your plants are getting enough water. We do offer a Six Month Guarantee for all dead plants.

About once a year your trees will and shrubs may need some pruning. Small pruning shears or a pull saw should be sufficient for most work. Pruning is not an art or a science so don't be afraid to start cutting. It is completely up to you how much you want to take off or leave. But here are a few suggestions before you start:

• Cut any small branches that are growing toward the ground.

• Cut any branches that are hanging over a walkway to above head level.

• Cut branches that are touching any part of your house.