As I drove around town yesterday, I noted many lawns taking on a brown cast. I have had only 0.06 inches of rain at my location in the past 14 days. Combined with persistent heat, this has caused considerable drying. My friend, nurseryman Bill Lagergren, reports the top 3 to 5 inches of soil are quite dry now, while the soil is still moist below this. Some rain occurred Friday and more is forecast, but both recent rains and forecast rains may be scattered and not benefit everyone. It is now time to water, especially new transplants and shallow rooted trees and shrubs. Please see this link for watering tips: http://extension.oregonstate.edu/gardening/art-and-science-watering-garden