Given the recent string of beautiful days, my rain gauge is beginning to complain that it is being ignored. Yet, the grass in my lawn continues to rise vigorously to do weekly battle with the mower.

Recent probes into the soil during planting expeditions show almost ideal planting conditions. Of course the water hose follows the new plants, but then it always does. I am watching the new plantings a bit more closely and will water every three to five days until the rains return.

I have a bit of grass seed to spread in a repair situation but I am holding off there despite the fact that September is usually the best time to seed new grass. Besides, I have so many projects that it has not moved up my priority list and won't until it rains.

Another project has me laying the cobble walk that wraps the recent patio and steps into the front door, kitchen door and the deck. I am quite pleased with the progress and the result.

Way back in the early 1990ies when we built the house my wife lobbied for the patio and walks. I promised without any disagreement. We did the steps in the fall and early winter of 2003-04. We dug out for the walks and installed six or eight inches of stone dust last January.

Such projects are within the reach of most of you if are willing to take your time. The most important ingredient for success is a well-packed foundation. The stone dust can be tamped or, if you work like me, just leveled several times as Mother Nature does the work.

Back to back recent conversations from homeowners confronting the fact that their new house landscaping was not well thought out occurred this week. Fortunately, or unfortunately, some of the plants crammed into too small a space were quite desirable. Others could be rendered to the trash heap without a whimper.

I encouraged them to attempt to transplant some of their good problems. The key is to get as much root and dirt as you can. Working an old blanket under the transplant makes it easy to transport and will help stabilize the roots and soil.

Once in its new home, regular watering every three to five days, less if it rains, is necessary until the ground freezes or the plant goes totally dormant. If you are dealing with an evergreen spraying with an anti-desiccant is a great idea.

Most anti-desiccants I have seen are bought as a clear molasses-like liquid that mixes with water. When sprayed on the tree it somewhat seals the tree, greatly reducing dehydration or water loss over the winter. This is absolutely necessary if the site is windy and a good idea if it isn't.

Also, a light coat of mulch over new plantings just after the ground first freezes is an excellent idea.

I'm watching for rain but enjoying the bright weather as I tackle my endless list of projects. My goal is more shrubs, more trees, more perennials, another load of cobbles, 75 feet of low wall, more vegetable garden, less mowing and less weeds.

That might take a lifetime. Life is good.