For many people, spring is the best time of the year. Cold, harsh weather is replaced by sunshine, warm temperatures, and cooling spring showers, and outdoor life springs into action once again. The more temperate months are a great time to get your yard and garden ready for summer. Below are some projects that will make your garden and yard beautiful all season long.
Pest Control
Garden pests such as aphids love the tender, fresh plants of spring. If you see curled or misshapen leaves on trees and plants like roses or fruit trees, you likely have aphids. Clear them away by regularly washing your plants with water (strongly enough to blast the pests away). Spraying with horticultural oil or soap can help too; take the natural approach by releasing ladybugs into your garden.
Ready your Flower Beds
Mix some organic matter into your planting beds by spreading 3″ or more of compost across the entire surface. If your soil is sandy, the compost will need to be blended in. Compost can help to reduce weeds, nourish the soil, keep the soil’s temperature constant and retain moisture.
Add Plants and Vegetables
The type of vegetables, flowers and plants you’ll add in the spring depend on your local climate and other conditions. To know what’s best to plant in your area, you should consult the experts at a local nursery or garden center. When the weather is mild, it’s a good time to plant veggies like beans, tomatoes and corn, and to set out bulbs which flower during the summer. In cooler climates you can still plant leafy greens, broccoli and roses.
Prune Hedges and Evergreens
When shrubs, bushes and evergreens exhibit new growth, it’s time to do some pruning. Most fruit-bearing trees should be pruned during the winter while they’re dormant, but spring is the perfect time to prune for shape and strength.
Properly Maintain Your Lawn
In most areas, the early spring months are the ideal time to begin major lawn overhauls. After your lawn has been adequately watered, you can dig out weeds and deeply-rooted dandelions. If your lawn is growing slowly, apply a nitrogen-based fertilizer according to the directions on the package. You will need a pound of fertilizer for every 1000 sq. ft. of lawn area; as the weather gets warmer, you can raise the blade on your lawnmower so that your grass is more heat-resistant and drought-tolerant.
Irrigate and Water
Small plants and seedlings can be watered as needed, but you should start planning now for how you’ll handle a potential drought situation. For instance, you may not want to plant too many summer annuals, which use quite a bit of water. Early to mid spring is a great time to repair, maintain or install a sprinkler system.
Spring and summer are the best time of year to get outdoors and enjoy everything your lawn and garden have to offer. With the seasonal maintenance tips above, you can enjoy your outdoor space even more.
Written by Tool Orders.
