Summer officially starts in a week, and it’s a great time to get some outdoor maintenance done. It’s also not too late to get plants down in the garden and make other yard and home improvements.

1. Plant annuals, herbs and summer vegetables

Now is a great time to plant annuals and vegetables like leafy greens, summer squash and carrots. Summer is also a good time to sow herbs like oregano, basil and fennel.

2. Power washing

Summer is the perfect time for power washing driveways, decks and other hard surfaces where dirt and grime have built up over the year. The mist and spray splashing around will even help keep you cool as you work.

3. Apply mulch

Mulch locks in moisture which is always important during the hotter months and means you have to use less water to keep them alive. Summer is a good time to lay down some mulch that will last throughout the next year.

4. Get rid of overgrown piles of leaves and scrap wood, organize piles of firewood

These can be havens for rodents and snakes. Make sure to use gloves and a rake. Generally, piles of wood shouldn’t be right up against your house because they can attract termites.

5. Set up a rain barrel

Water conservation is important year-round but it is especially pertinent during the summer months. You can set up a rain barrel to take advantage of water already falling in your yard. They are available in many hardware stores and can help keep your water bill down.

6. Pruning shrubs

Cut back shrubs that took off during the Spring. However, do not prune flowering shrubs until after they’ve flowered or you might stop them from blooming. These include shrubs like azaleas, rhododendrons and camellias.

7. Clean out gutters

Every season is gutter cleaning season but it is especially important after spring. Trees have spread seeds and other plant material which can buildup if left unaddressed. Plus big storms can lead to deluges and further problems when gutters are clogged.

8. Clip poison oak, poison ivy and poison sumac

These annoying plants can be stronger in the spring so summer is a good time to get rid of them. The best way to get them off trees is to clip them at their base. Ripping them down can cause them to rub up against skin and create irritation.

9. Walk around and examine your house

Make sure there’s no rotten wood and repair any damage you find.

10. Get estimates from contractors for any work your considering in the next 6 months

Now is a good time to get an estimate and plan out any work you want to get done this year.

Enjoy your summer and don’t forget to wear gloves and other protective equipment if you’re working outside!