Poison ivy is dangerous year-round, say experts with the University of Georgia Extension Service. You can get an irritation from the leaves, roots, berries and even smoke from burning the vines. Learn to know the leaves so you can guard against the plant. If you think you may have come in contact with it, wash immediately with soap and water and remove any clothes that may have the oil on them. Prevention is the best medicine for this ailment.

LAVENDER TIPS
Cut the first flowers of lavender to encourage a second crop, say experts with the University of Georgia Extension Service. Try rubbing your hands with lavender leaves, too, to remove strong odors, such as garlic or onion.

CUTTINGS
Take stem cuttings of woody ornamentals and perennials in June, say experts with the University of Georgia Extension Service. Collect seed of fire pinks, wild indigo and bleeding hearts, too. Fall bloomers that get too tall, such as chrysanthemum, can be cut back by about one-half now to reduce their fall height.

SHARP EDGES
Keep a sharp edge on spades, hoes and other cutting tools, say experts with the University of Georgia Extension Service. This makes cutting through weed roots and sod much easier.

SHREDDED LAWNS
A brown or grayish cast over lawns can be caused by dull or improperly adjusted mower blades, say experts with the University of Georgia Extension Service.

SHADY FLOWERS
Impatiens is the best annual to put in shady areas, say experts with the University of Georgia Extension Service. Begonias, coleus, ageratum, salvia and Vinca prefer light shade (five to six hours of sunlight).