Sketch a Plan
It’s a good time to do a little reflecting on last year’s garden. Grab some paper and a pencil, and sketch your future spring garden plans. Analyze your space and decide what you want to change.
Create a Gardening Budget
Figure out your game plan for spring garden plant buying. Prioritize how you’ll spend your money this year on plants, supplies, tools, etc. It’ll help you stick to your budget.
Make a Shopping List
Identify gaps in your landscape, such as plants that didn’t overwinter or were knocked out by pests and diseases, and make a plan for
filling hanging flower baskets
and containers. Include any tools and supplies that you need to replace or restock.
Try Something New
It’s always fun to plant different things, so vow to try at least one
new-to-you thing
in your spring garden this year. Experiment with an interesting veggie or splurge on a plant you’ve had your eyes on. Grab a pack of
annual seeds
you’ve never tried before and sprinkle it in your garden for a quick $2 makeover.
Start Seeds Indoors
When it’s really cold,
start plants from seeds indoors
to put out in your vegetable garden later on. You can also start flower seeds indoors to give the growing season a jump start. To do this yourself, be sure to have a sturdy table or flat surface near a sunny window. Otherwise, you might need to provide artificial lighting.
Pick a New Houseplant
Don’t forget about indoor gardening. Hit your nearby garden center and
pick out a new houseplant
to brighten your living space.
Visit an Indoor Garden
If a late cold snap gets you down, go on a plant field trip. Many botanical gardens and museums have an indoor space with year-round gardens. Make it a point to find one and plan a visit to look for inspiration. Better yet, take a fellow plant lover with you and make a day trip out of it.
Check for Storm Damage
After a big snowstorm, check on your landscape. Secure loose branches, cut back damaged twigs. Grab your shears and get ready to cut. Inspect trees and shrubs, and snip off any branches with winter damage.
Prepare for Pruning
Late winter is a good time to
prune summer-blooming shrubs like hydrangeas
Before the buds begin to develop, if you’re uncertain about what or how much to trim, consider checking out a gardening book from your library or contacting your nearby extension office for advice. It’s always wise to research a plant’s ideal trimming timing prior to using your pruning tools. Cut at a 45-degree angle, just above a bud or branch that faces away from the center of the plant.
Keep a Spring Journal
Look for
signs of spring
, from newly emerged green shoots appearing to the initial growth
robin’s song
In your outdoor space. Make sure to record the dates and observe how they change over time. If you’re feeling particularly artistic, compose spring garden poems or draw the birds and butterflies you spot.
Add Mulch and Compost
Clean up garden beds and remove any debris.
Toss on extra mulch
Where it’s necessary. Adding an additional layer aids in retaining moisture, preventing erosion, and protecting plant roots. Mixing compost with the soil introduces vital nutrients and organic materials that enhance its capacity to hold water and boost drainage.
Compost
Additionally, it enhances the overall health and vitality of plants, reducing their susceptibility to pests and diseases.
