It is Spring once again and time to rev up the lawnmower and start sprucing up your lawn. However, if you are like me, one glance around your yard may send you running back inside the house wishing for a longer winter. It seems there are so many tasks to be done that it is difficult to determine where to begin. The best approach is to organize your tasks and create a game plan. Here are some tips to help you get started on your Spring Gardening Task List. Soon you will be on your way to a beautiful yard that will be the envy of all your neighbors.
Inventory your tools and replace any that need to be replaced. Was there a certain tool that you wanted all of last year but never got around to buying? Buy it now.
Clean and sharpen your tools. Purchase any needed tool accessories such as string for your weed eater. Are your gloves worn? Do you have an adequate supply of weed killer, spray bottles, ant killer, etc.? Stock up now.
Remove dead leaves and other debris from your lawn and gardening beds.
Prune shrubs and trees. Check with your local Extension Office for advice on what and when to prune specific plants.
Fertilize your lawn. When and how often will depend on your area and the type of grass. Check with your local nursery or contact your Extension Office for advice.
Apply pre-emergent herbicides to lawn, shrubs, and perennial beds.
Remove old mulch and apply new mulch.
Your new mulch definitely needs to be in
place before the hot weather sets in,
however, it may be applied at any time.
Care for your perennials by dividing and
replanting if they are overcrowded. Cut back
ornamental grasses and other perennials as
needed.
Assess your yard and garden beds and
determine what plants you would like to add
this year. Are there areas that need quick
color? If so, you should consider planting
some annuals. Do you have some
underdeveloped areas that could use some
perennials or shrubs or maybe even a tree?
Decide what and where you want to add plants
and then make plans to start planting once
the threat of frost has passed.
When assessing your yard, don’t forget to consider the addition of containers, hanging baskets, and other yard accessories (such as a bird bath or bird feeders).
It is not too late to begin your plants from seeds. If the weather is still too cold in your area, you can start the seeds indoors and then plant outdoors when the weather is warmer.
Mowing and Edging – Check your mower and replace blades and spark plugs if needed and fill with fresh oil and gas. The first time you mow you should lower your blade one notch lower than usual. This will help get rid of any debris that settled on your lawn during the winter. Edging your lawn will make it look nicely manicured.
This list will get your yard off to a great start for the new season. Remember, though, that each area (zone) is different so make adjustments according to your zone and needs.
