Whatever you do in the fall and winter is going to play a massive impact on your spring garden. But technically, even during spring, and right before spring hits, what you do still matters a lot. Sure, there are thing that needs to be done all the way in September and October, such as planting tulip bulbs and other spring bulbs, but then there are things you can actually do in late winter and earlier spring (super early) in order to have a gorgeous lawn for the rest of spring.
This actually goes far beyond just the basics like spring cleaning your garden (granted you should still do that). So, what else should you do? Well, get ready to roll up your sleeves, because here’s exactly what you need to know!
Start with a Deep Clean
For starters, winter doesn’t leave quietly, it dumps leaves, twigs, and all kinds of debris all over your yard before it packs up and heads out. So, what’s your first job? Well, it’s clearing the clutter. So, this isn’t really a spring cleaning if you’re doing this in winter, but it’s a nice way to prepare for an outdoor spring cleaning.
So, you should ideally get rid of all of that dead grass and layers of old leaves that block sunlight and choke your soil, making it impossible for anything to grow. .The same goes for raking everything to try to get out what’s dead (or barely holding on for life). If you have bulbs in the ground or other spring flowers (like forget-me-nots) then be careful and just be a bit more gentle with raking and sweeping.
Adjust the Shade with Tree Pruning
If you’ve got big, beautiful trees dominating your yard, they might be throwing too much shade, well, quite literally speaking. While they’re lovely to look at, those massive branches could be blocking sunlight from reaching your grass, flowers, and plants. So, even in winter and early spring, as long as there isn’t any snow, it might be a good idea to go ahead and just prune it. Generally speaking, a little pruning can make a huge difference, letting more light hit the ground where it’s needed.
While sure, there are plenty of pruning tutorials online, and with a small tree, you can do it by yourself (something that’s around your height), but anything taller than that, especially, if you need a ladder, well, you’re better off hiring tree care experts to get the job instead.
But why? Well, they’ll trim things safely and effectively, ensuring your trees stay healthy while giving your garden the boost it needs. They have the equipment to safely go up there anyway (the last thing you want is an accident, right?). Plus by late spring and early summer, having your tree pruned means your lawn will be much fuller.
Focus on Soil Health
Your soil has been through a lot this winter. It’s compacted, tired, and probably begging for a refresh. Believe it or not, but you’re going to need to look into aerating your lawn. Yes, it needs to “breathe” since this helps loosen up the water and the nutrients in the soil (and it’s best for the roots too).
Watch for Weeds Before They Take Over
Yes, even in winter and early spring, you’re still going to get weeds, so just go ahead and try to trap them now so you’ll deal with a lot less when the warmer months come around (especially summer since this is when it’s the worst).
