The weather is warming up, days are getting longer, and the landscape is starting to show signs of greening. All telltale signs that spring is officially here. If you are thinking about gardening this year, it pays to get started early for success. Here are some tips to help you get your yard ready for spring planting and your best garden yet.
Plan Your Season
Start by planning what you want to grow. This may seem obvious, but many gardens fail simply due to a lack of good planning. Look at what thrives in the sun, shade, or a mixture of both. Have your soil tested to determine what amendments—if any—need to be added. Investigate plants that will allow you to have a healthy, thriving, and productive garden all season long.
This is also a great time to plan out the location of any new beds or irrigation systems you are thinking of adding this year. If you have problems with animals or insects, consider options like netting, fencing, or no-dig barriers that will help keep your plants safe.
Order Supplies
From seeds to soil, now is the time to start ordering supplies while they are still available. Go ahead and pour over the seed catalogs, walk through the garden center aisles, and dream big. Try at least one new plant variety each year to keep things interesting. Some supplies you should be getting together now include:
- Seeds, bulbs, and trees
- Garden tools like shovels, rakes, and cultivators
- Irrigation supplies like soaker hoses
- Ground covers and mulches
Check Your Compost Bin
Now is also a great time to make sure your compost pile is heated up and ready to add to the garden. If you don’t have a compost bin, look into options for adding one to your gardening plan. They offer a great way to reduce household waste while also offering an excellent source of soil conditioner and fertilizer.