Since my previous entry in late January the spring season has advanced in fits and starts.  While we have experienced temperatures in the 80’s as recently as last week we are now looking at the possibility of a winter’s mix of precipitation this weekend.  In fact, when I walked out the door this morning I was greeted with brisk north winds.  It won’t be long however, until the prevailing winds will be from the south and remain that way until the fall.  Many lawn and garden activities can be initiated in the next couple of weeks.  There is still time to apply pre-emergent to your lawn to prevent summer weeds.  Numerous products are also available to use in your landscape beds to assist in weed control in these areas as well.  I’ve been seeing quite a bit of aphid activity on the new spring growth of photinias and other shrubs.  Aphids and other common insect pests can be managed during the spring months with timely monitoring and treatments if necessary.  Many annual bedding plants will soon be available at our local garden centers and can be installed during the next few weeks.  I would wait until mid April to plant summer vegetables such as tomatoes, okra and squash.  Watering should begin on a regular basis if we don’t receive a decent rainfall once every 10 days or so.  Lawns need approximately 1 inch of water per week at this time while landscape beds should receive 1 inch every couple of weeks.  The reduced water needs in beds assumes the beds are adequately mulched.  Mulching really helps conserve moisture by reducing evaporation and the drying effects of wind. Now is also a good time to fertilize your lawn as well as any ornamental and bedding plants in your landscape.  All the chores mentioned above should keep you busy during the next few weeks.  I hope you all enjoy the spring season.