Can you tell that we are really, really excited for spring yet? We’ve discussed our obsession with tackling our window boxes, which is a great place to start, but now it’s time to move on to the big stuff — YOUR YARD. Like most things in life, it is best to do a little planning and prep work before jumping in (and having a meltdown at your local nursery). The following are some tips and prep we recommend doing to ready your yard for the most lovely time of year, Spring.
5 Things To Do to Get Your Yard Ready For Spring:
A Little Winter Clean-Up
First, things first this isn’t necessarily the most fun part, but it is very necessary. Plus with the right attitude, it really can be quite enjoyable. Think of it as a time to explore and access what you’re working with. You may even discover some beauties already popping up or maybe even some edibles to use for dinner.
I prefer to handle the clean before I even start planning my garden. This way I really know what’s going on and gets me dreaming up ideas as I uncover all it’s working with, in its current state.
Get out your rake and rid it of any twigs, leaves and other debris.
Pro tip: take pictures on your phone of areas you have ideas for and make a few quick notes. Later on, when you’re planning you can look back at these for better accuracy.
Get Your Plan and Supplies
Before you run off to the store get all your pots, supplies, and whatever gardening odds and ends you have together in one place.
Next, grab a pencil and a paper and start sketching out a bit of a map design of what you envision for your garden. You don’t have to draw a beautiful Monet like garden-scene, just whatever makes sense for you and is easy for you to follow and understand when you come back to it later.
Get out your phone with those pictures you took during clean up and really embrace what is there and what you have already.
Consider things like light, your water commitment, your taste buds and your existing landscape.
Once you have done this you have permission to head to your local nursery.
Fertilize
Never underestimate the power of a good fertilizer. There are lots of great natural fertilizers you can find too.
Considering starting your own composting pile this year? We highly recommend it. G has you covered with all the how-tos HERE, too.
Mixing soil is a true art, and a definite garden game changer. Do a little research on what is right for your area and climate, (but more on that later).
Plant
Okay, finally the really fun stuff. Get your hands dirty and bring your vision to life. It doesn’t all have to happen in one weekend either. Really enjoy this time and be sure to wear your sunscreen (even in these early Spring months!).
