Spring is officially here! Are you as ready for longer and warmer days as we are? Now is the time to start thinking about your home’s exterior and getting it prepared for the months ahead. From trimming trees and bushes to planting annuals and vegetables, here’s what you need to know about getting your yard ready for the season!
Clean debris
Many homeowners are now waiting until spring to clean fallen leaves from the previous autumn. This gives beneficial insects a place to overwinter so they’re available to help your garden out in the spring. If you haven’t already, clean up leaves and other debris that has accumulated since last fall. However, be aware that you should wait until the soil has dried out, especially if you’ve had a wet winter. Walking on wet soil can compact and damage it, so postpone cleaning until water has had a chance to evaporate.
Trim trees and shrubs
Spring is also an excellent time to turn your attention to trees and shrubs. Trim out any dead or damaged branches from trees. These early days of spring can be a great time to trim some bushes before they begin their spring growth. Just be aware that some bushes, such as rhododendrons and azaleas, should not be trimmed until after they’ve bloomed. Otherwise, you run the risk of having fewer flowers this year.
Weed
Think back to all those summer weeds that were nearly impossible to remove. It’s no fun trying to pull weeds that have become established over the spring and summer. That’s why weeding now in early spring is such a good idea. Weeds are extremely easy to spot and to pull out at this time of year. With shallow roots and small growth, you’ll make quick work of this particular chore.
Transplant perennials
Early spring is also an excellent time to transplant many of your perennials. If you have any perennials that have gotten too big or have started to die out in the center, then it’s time to divide and conquer. Digging these plants out and splitting them can give your garden a huge boost. Not only will your plants look healthier, but it will also save you money. It’s like getting free plants!
Make repairs
Your yard can take a beating over the winter months. Take a walk through your garden and notice what repairs need to be made. This could include fence posts that have come loose, trellises that are leaning, or planters that have cracked. Spring is a good time to tackle these projects before you get busy with other garden chores.
Clean and sharpen tools
Finally, take some time to clean and sharpen all your garden tools. Having clean and sharp tools make garden maintenance so much easier. This includes hand tools such as loppers and pruners as well as mechanical tools like lawnmowers. You should aim to sharpen your lawnmower blade every year before you begin cutting the grass. A dull blade will tear the grass instead of cutting it, which can cause disease down the line. If you’re unsure about how to sharpen your lawnmower blade, then take it to a professional to have it done.
