In most cases, blossom-end rot on tomatoes, peppers, squash and watermelons can be prevented. Maintain uniform soil moisture by mulching and watering correctly. Plant in well-drained soil and don't cultivate deeper than 1 inch within 1 foot of the plant. And avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers.

Cucumbers develop a bitter taste if the soil is not kept consistently moist. Harvest cukes for pickling whole when they're 2 to 4 inches long. For table use, pick them when they're longer than 5 inches. Remove any overripe cucumbers to encourage continuous production.

Caladiums need generous amounts of water and fertilizer to continuously produce new leaves during the summer. Apply a light side-dressing of 5-10-5 fertilizer every two weeks. Water it in thoroughly to encourage bright-colored foliage.

Cut the first flowers of lavender to encourage a second crop. Try rubbing your hands with lavender leaves, too, to remove strong odors, such as garlic or onion.

Happy first weekend of summer

Gardening Angel