Early Spring Gardening Checklist

Hurray for May! Spring is here at last.

For those of us who love to dig in and get our hands dirty, there’s much to be done. Even though the weather is still a bit unpredictable, here’s an early spring checklist to help you organize.

• Lawn Care
  Spring is the best time to prevent weed seeds from germinating in your lawn. A good crabgrass preventer should be applied when your forsythia bushes finish blooming. Or, if weeds are not as much a priority, it’s time to seed and fertilize. You might also want to do a soil test to see if it needs correcting.
• Prune
  Now is an ideal time to prune shrubs that do not bloom in the spring. Prune away any deadwood and reshape its silhouette.
• Structural Repairs
  Now’s a great time to repair raised beds, reinforce that trellis, and freshen up gravel or stone pathways.
• Clean out Debris
  Clear out unwanted brush, rake remaining leaves, and clean out planting beds.
• Feed & Protect your Beds
  As soon as your soil dries enough, add a top dressing of compost or your go-to organic mix. Then cover your beds with mulch.
• Take Care of the Birds
  Birds add so much to any garden environment. Now’s the time to fill your bird feeders and clean out birdhouses.
• Check your Equipment
  Time to open up those sheds and check on equipment and supplies. Clean and organize your garden tools & pots. Check on hoses and hook them up for the season. Sharpen cutting tools.