Spring is just 3 months away! Now is the time to prepare your yard for lush new growth and vibrant greenery in the months ahead. Proper preparation and maintenance during late winter will ensure your lawn, landscaping, and gardens thrive when warmer weather arrives.
Here are some key tips from the Atlanta Landscape Designer for getting your outdoor space ready for spring. Addressing these areas will give your yard a fertile, weed-free foundation to support vigorous growth when temperatures rise.
Things you can do for prepping your yard
- Clear Away Winter Debris
The first step is to remove dead leaves, branches, or plant material from flower beds, lawns, and landscaped areas. Rake thoroughly to remove debris that has accumulated over winter. Removing this matter allows sunshine to warm the soil and provides space for new growth.
- Check and Amend the Soil
Well-balanced soil acts as the best foundation for healthy plants so it’s a great time to check your soil’s pH level and nutrients. You can use home kits for testing or even send the sample to the local agricultural extension office for professional testing. The results will reveal your soil makeup and what amendments or fertilizers are needed.
- Stock Up On Supplies
Ensure you have the essentials for spring planting and yard maintenance. Shop for fertilizers, soil amendments, organic matter, seeds, and anything else you may need now to avoid shortages or delays once spring is underway.
Make sure your gardening tools and power equipment get seasonal maintenance and sharpening so they are ready for action. Having the right supplies and tools easily accessible makes spring planting, pruning, mowing, and yard clean-up easier.
- Prune Shrubs and Trees
Pruning improves the health and shape of plants and stimulates new growth. It not only improves the visual appeal but also promotes better air circulation and sunlight penetration, which are essential for plant health.
However, pruning is precision work that requires training and skill. It is best to collaborate with the Outdoor Butlers to get a strategic pruning plan and ensure your plants thrive through expert pruning.
- Repair Lawns
Lawns may have bare or thin spots after winter. Fill in patches by reseeding and covering with straw. Aerate compacted soil by punching holes to allow air and water to penetrate roots. Apply a thin layer of compost over the lawn to provide nutrients for regrowth. Follow seeding and fertilizing rates for your grass type.
- Remove Weeds
It is essential to remove weeds manually by digging out roots or using targeted sprays. You can apply pre-emergent weed killers to block seeds from germinating. Keep weeds under control now and they’ll be much easier to manage later in the growing season. You can even take the help of outdoor Butlers to guide you in doing this job properly.
- Plant Cool-Season Vegetables
Get a head start on your vegetable garden by planting cool-season crops like spinach, lettuce, peas, and radishes. Prepare the soil with compost and fertilizer, then directly sow seeds outdoors according to packet instructions. It is a great time to transplant seedlings that were started indoors. Use row covers to protect plants from any late frosts.
- Schedule Irrigation System Check
Schedule a professional check and tune-up of your irrigation system to take place before the weather warms and watering needs increase. Replacing worn parts, adjusting sprayer and drip heads, checking for clogs and leaks, and resetting timers ensure your system provides adequate, even coverage without wasting precious water.
In addition, proper irrigation system maintenance prevents headaches and dry patches later in the growing season. This small investment of time and money now will pay dividends all spring and summer as long as your yard and gardens thrive with sufficient water.
- Power Wash and Clean
Last but not least, breathe new life into patios, decks, siding, and sidewalks by giving them a thorough power washing. It not only improves aesthetics but also removes built-up dirt and grime. You can also check for any repairs needed to structures or surfaces. A fresh, clean foundation sets the stage for an inviting outdoor living space.
- Focus on Aesthetics and sustainability
Consider water conservation, soil health, and biodiversity when designing a landscape to guarantee its beauty endures for years. This may involve planting native species adapted to your weather patterns, conserving resources by adopting drip watering systems, and incorporating natural aspects such as rock formations and timber into your design.
Setting up a sustainable landscape design will help you reduce your environmental footprint and create a beautiful and healthy outdoor space.
Wrapping It Up
Eventually, if you put in the time and effort to prepare your yard for spring, you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous and sustainable environment that thrives all year long. Following these tips from your Atlanta landscape architects ensures your outdoor spaces will be vibrant and healthy for years to come.
Besides, you can consider hiring Outdoor Makeover & Living Spaces for landscape design services. We will help get your outdoor space ready for the spring growing season.
