Spring has officially arrived and with it comes fresh green grass, beautiful blooms and patio hangouts. However, if you're looking to start your own garden this year, there are plenty of steps to take right now to ensure it's a success.
Take a look at some top tips for getting your garden in its best shape yet, provided by the experts at Blain's Farm & Fleet.
1. SPRING CLEAN FOR A GREEN SPRING.
The first thing you should do once snow has melted is clean up any winter-caused damage like broken branches, boughs, dead leaves and any other debris. You could also use this time to sharpen your garden tools. It's true, gardens don't care much for dull blades.
2. GIVE YOUR GARDEN A MANURE-CURE.
Winter and soil are not the best of friends, as cold weather almost always leaves soil dried out and in serious need of nutrients. So, get out your watering can or garden hose, and if yours looks drier than the Sahara Desert, add some manure, compost or fertilizer.
3. OUT WITH THE OLD.
It's pruning time! Get out those sharpened tools and prune away all diseased or dead plant, shrub and/or tree branches. You could also use this time to prune any branches that mess with your desired shrub and/or tree shape. It's important, however, to know your garden well, as some shrubs and trees have different pruning seasons.
4. MULCH TO DO ABOUT ...
... thinned-out grass! Add a little mulch to any thinned-out areas to help your garden retain moisture, maintain temperature and prevent disease.
5. PETAL TO THE METAL.
It's planting time. Start with slow-growing plants like peas, lettuce and/or arugula for vegetable gardens and spring-loving plants like lilacs, tulips, pansies and/or snapdragons for flower gardens. Note: Planting seeds is climate dependent, so check out this USDA Hardiness Zones Guide before getting started.
And happy gardening!
Courtesy of West Michigan Woman.
