It’s finally here! The traditional beginning of spring is right around the corner. The vernal equinox, which officially falls on March 20 this year, is the official start to a season of growth and renewal as the days get longer. This is the season of chirping birds, blooming flowers, trees beginning to bud new leaves, worms emerging from the damp earth and ladybugs landing on screen doors.
In addition to the reawakening flora and fauna, this is traditionally the time for spring fever and spring-cleaning. That means it’s also time to break out your garden tools and get started on the spring landscaping tasks that will lead to a great yard all summer long!
If you’re in the mood to get started – maybe by casting off the gray and gloom of winter, and clearing a path through the garden to make way for that little spring in your step – we’ve got a list of spring landscaping tasks. Have a little fun getting your hands dirty, or call a qualified local landscaping crew! Spring landscaping tasks, in no particular order:
1) In early spring, just before the thaw, if your trees and shrubs are still dormant it’s the time to prune away any damage caused by heavy snow. You don’t want to cut your trees after they begin budding leaves – heavy cuts made in spring can kill a tree, or leave it open to disease.
2) Start seeds indoors, in small containers, of annual plants you’ll want in your garden. Flowers such as zinnias, snapdragons, verbena, marigolds, aster, dahlias, cornflower and hollyhock are all good choices. If you aren’t a gardener, start planning which annuals you’ll want for your flowerbeds by visiting local garden centers to see what they’re offering this year. You can also begin planting iris and dahlia outdoors, depending on your local climate. Check with garden center staff to learn more about which annuals will do best in your area.
3) Get your soil tested to learn more about which nutrients are needed to grow a healthy green landscape in your yard. You can find kits online, at garden centers, or have your soil tested by landscaping professionals.
4) Set out snail bait and start fertilizing. You can also set out early weed control. Now is the time that insects and early pollinators (such as bees) come out, so take care not to use products that might poison these necessary little creatures.
5) Depending on your local climate, now might be the time to start your garden. In some areas, tomatoes, eggplant, peppers and potatoes can all be planted outdoors from true seeds. Start your herb seedlings indoors for transplant later. You can begin sowing seeds once the soil temperatures are at or above the minimum of 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
6) Spring is also the right time to transplant most fruit trees. Wrap them if a late season frost threatens.
7) Tend to your indoor garden. Pinch and prune houseplants; increase fertilizer and water; and re-pot root bound plants.
Bonus tip: Now is a great time to begin calling around to find the best landscapers to edge your garden, help you plan for the coming season and help with any pruning or additional clean up tasks. Call us, we’re happy to help!