As the winter starts to wind down, now is the best time to
consider what steps you need to take to have a flourishing yard and garden this
summer. Waiting until April or May might seem logical but there’s actually
quite a bit to be done before we start putting those hardy vegetables in the
ground.
1.
Asses
Your Space
When doing any project in your yard it’s
important to have a game plan. This often takes a bit of research and
consultation depending on an array of factors. However, don’t be overwhelmed,
just get an early start. When the snow begins to melt, assess your lawn and
determine if areas may need to be patched with sod or grass seed. Think about
the suns cycle in your area and determine where you plant based on this and
what each individual plant needs.
2.
Clean
Up Debris
This one might seem obvious but
it’s an important garden chore that can be taken care of ahead of time to avoid
stress later on. If there are any remaining leaves or fallen branches under the
snow make sure to rake them up. Dead leaves can equal dead grass if left alone.
Throw the dead leaves in your compost and you’ll be ready for step three.
3.
Prep
Garden Beds
This is a very important step for the
budget conscious gardener. Buying compost and topsoil can add up fast.
Therefore, it’s a smart idea to supplement as much store bought compost with
your own nutrient rich compost as possible. There are many ways to make your
own compost. One of the easiest is to get a rubber garbage can with a lid.
Drill many holes along the outside of the can to allow oxygen into the mixture.
Throw in any organic material void of animal fats, cooked protein, invasive
seeds, or chemicals. Vegetable scraps, yard waste, and certain types of paper
are perfect for the compost. Eggshells, bananas, and used coffee grounds are
some of the best and most common household composting materials. Scatter
compost in garden beds and areas of your lawn that may be lacking nutrients to
give your plants a boost!
4.
Plan
for Pruning
The late winter is often a good time to
prune fruit trees, dead tree or shrub branches and some annuals to promote
summer growth. Do some research on what’s growing in your yard to see if
pruning should be a part of your spring yard preparation.
5.
Clean
and Prepare Hard Surfaces
This may involve raking gravel from the lawn
or garden beds, touching up fences or trellises with paint or stain, sweeping
and sealing walking paths etcetera. Take a look out your window and decide
where is a good place to get a head start on yard or garden!
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