As the winter starts to fade away, it’s time to start thinking about getting your garden ready for spring. Gardening can be intimidating though, right? Wrong! With a bit of preparation and some hard work (and perhaps even some guidance from professionals…links below!), you can create a beautiful outdoor space that you can enjoy all spring and summer long. Here are some tips on getting your garden ready for spring.
- Clean up your garden
The first step in getting your garden ready for spring is to clean up any debris and dead foliage that accumulated during the winter months. This will help you identify any areas that need extra attention, such as weeding or soil preparation. Rake up any leaves, remove any dead plants, and dispose of any debris that may have accumulated. PRO TIP! Instead of throwing away or burning your yard waste, make this your year to start composting—either at home or with a local composting service.
- Prune your plants
Once you’ve cleaned up your garden, it’s time to prune your plants. This will help to promote healthy growth and shape your plants. Pruning will also help to get rid of any diseased or dead branches that could harm the plant. Make sure you use the correct tools and techniques for each plant to avoid damaging them. PRO TIP! Different plants want to be pruned in different ways and at different times.
- Prepare your soil
The next step is to prepare your soil. This involves adding any necessary nutrients and fertilizers to the soil. You can also amend your soil with compost or other organic matter to improve the soil’s structure and drainage. PRO TIP! Testing your soil can also help you determine what amendments you may need to add to it.
- Plan your garden
Once you’ve cleaned up, pruned, and prepared your soil, it’s time to plan your garden. Consider the plants that you want to grow and where you want to plant them. You should also think about the layout of your garden and any hardscaping elements you may want to include, such as pathways or garden beds. PRO TIP! Local gardening companies like can help you plan the perfect garden based on your specific space and needs.
- Plant your seeds or starts
With your garden planned, it’s time to start planting your seeds and starts. Make sure you follow the instructions on your seed packets or plant containers for proper planting depth and spacing. You can also start seeds indoors and then transplant them into your garden once the weather warms up. PRO TIP! Don’t be afraid to ask the nursery or garden center employees for advice on how to plant the perfect garden.
- Maintain your garden
Once you’ve planted your garden, it’s important to maintain it. This means watering your plants regularly, weeding, and monitoring for pests and diseases. Regular maintenance will help your garden thrive and produce a beautiful bounty of flowers and vegetables.
After a winter spent indoors, getting your hands dirty and garden ready for spring can be a rewarding experience that can provide you with beautiful flowers and fresh produce, not to mention the perfect setting for creating summer memories.
