You probably think about the inside of your home when you hear the term “spring cleaning”. But, it’s also the time to think about giving your yard some TLC to prepare it for summer.
Cleanup
Throughout the winter, you probably didn’t spend much time removing grass from mulch beds, picking up plant debris, or cleaning up any litter. Start by gathering a trash bag and a small shovel.
Prune
Dead limbs and winterkill on tree branches should be pruned off.
Rake
Yes, you probably raked in the fall but raking is also for controlling thatch. A thatch build-up of more than ½ inch will require a deep raking to remove grass blades that died over the winter.
Prepare Planting Beds
Adding a little compost around plants and removing any weeds will help prep perennials for another successful season. If you plan to add any new planting beds, now is the time to create those.
Plant and Mulch
You can install trees, shrubs and hardy perennials in early spring. For tender perennials, you’ll want to wait until the last frost date has passed. Mulch gives a great final touch and also helps conserve water, cool plant roots, feeds the soil and smothers weeds.
Prevent Weeds
It’s easier to get ahead of weeds and have a plan before they even emerge. Landscape fabric and mulch help in planting beds, but for your lawn you’ll want to use an herbicide, particularly for crabgrass control. Crabgrass seed germinates when the soil is around 60 degrees, so you’ll want to apply herbicide prior to this time.
Tune Up Your Lawn Mower
Make sure your lawn mower starts up, and consider taking it in for a tune-up. Make sure your mower is ready to go when the time comes!
Check the Outside of Your Home
Give the Outside of your home a once-over. Look for rotting wood, fallen siding or any additional repairs.
Enjoy
You earned it! Grab a cold drink, sit back, and look at your hard work! Beautiful weather is finally here!