As we start to see these gray, dreary winter days getting longer in Brookfield our minds can’t help but drift to thoughts of warmth and sunshine. For many of us, those thoughts also include spending time outdoors in our yards. Yards that have been frozen and covered in snow for several months. Below are the top ten ways we can help you improve the look of your yard for the upcoming spring thaw.
Clear out weeds and last season’s garden debris: Be sure to clear out any left over garden debris from flower beds and around the borders. This includes leaves, dead plants, weeds, sticks and anything else that may not belong.
Prune any broken, diseased or dead limbs: Be sure to prune back any spring blooming shrubs (such as Witch Hazel, Forsythia or Andromeda) after flowering. Also be sure to prune dead limbs from your deciduous trees (Red Maple, White Ash or Red Oaks). Now is also the time to trim and thin out your summer blooming shrubs (Butterfly Bush, Hydrangea or most roses). Pruning and thinning of these will help to ensure healthy and beautiful trees and plants all spring and summer.
Reseed any bare patches in your lawn: The benefit of this is a beautiful lawn that looks well maintained and groomed. Reseeding also helps to maintain a healthy root system and deter weeds from growing.
Aerate your lawn: Aerating your lawn helps to allow oxygen, water, and other essential nutrients to easily reach the grass’ roots. Using a soil conditioner is a great way to achieve this task. Soil conditioner is fortified with microorganisms to help the roots grow more efficiently. This results in a lush, green, healthy lawn.
Apply a 2 – 3 inch layer of mulch: You will want to have this done around the base of plants, trees, shrubs and anywhere you may have developing bulbs and perennials. The addition of mulch helps to regulate soil temperature/moisture levels as well as deter weeds from growing. New mulch also helps to add visual appeal to the look of your garden, especially as last year’s mulch may have deteriorated or thinned over the winter. There are a variety of different types of mulch to choose from, including shredded bark, recycled rubber and even cocoa bean shells!
Hold off on the lawn fertilizer: You should wait to apply the first lawn fertilization until after your first lawn mowing of the spring.
Check the pH of your soil: If you are planning on redoing or adding in new landscape, be sure to have the pH of your lawn tested. This can help to determine the best type of plants and shrubs to plant in your garden. Plants that are grown in soil with the proper pH are more resistant to disease & insects, healthier and generally more productive.
Create excitement in your landscape with a focal point: This can be achieved using garden archways, a prominent plant or tree, or even a beautifully landscaped flower bed.
Before planting, consider the characteristics of your yard: Some things to take into consideration are soil type, the patterns of sun & shade your yard receives, the direction of wind patterns, how much water is available. All of these factors play a huge part in determining how lovely your garden will be.
Fertilize growing plants: In the spring you should fertilize plants with compost, aged manure or an all-purpose organic fertilizer. This will help to ensure your garden has the proper nutrients to ensure beautiful, healthy plants.
Please contact us today to answer any questions or for help with preparing your garden and lawn for Spring planting. We look forward in assisting with making your yard the best it can be!