I love this time of year.  The Bradford pear trees are in full bloom, my tulips have given a glorious bouquet of colors, and the butter cups did not disappoint me again this year.  New life is showing up everywhere, as the trees show a few buds of new growth telling me old man winter will leave for several months before returning.

Getting my yard ready for spring brings on chores that I personally need help with.  As it is, I do have a neighbor who is always near to work with me and in the end, he and I stand back and admire our own handiwork.

My friend has kept the dead leaves from fall off my grass.  That has been such a blessing as now I see the Zoysia grass begin to show green.

  1. Make a day of removing debris, like limbs, or paper or clutter from the yard.  Old man winter has a way of leaving leaves against the house, or under the fence, so a little raking may be in order as well.
  2. Raking the yard is also necessary.  A stiff tined garden rake will work wonders as it gets up the grass clippings from last year that may smother out growth.
  3. I like the idea that a well groomed lawn can increase the value of your property, and for sure be an eye catcher to passersby.  Whether you intend to sell or not, I like compliments that are passed on to me by those who are out for an afternoon stroll.  Looking at it this way, keeps me from seeing the chore it is from long hours I’ll be working to get it looking like I want it to.
  4. This is a perfect time of year to fertilize the lawn.  A slow release fertilizer works wonders in giving the grass a boost while in its growth stages.
  5. Also, before perianal get started, it is a great time to edge the flower beds.  Pulling the dirt and grass from around the flower bed, will help in a clean area in which to work.  Save the grass you’ve pulled up for another spot in the yard that may need it.
  6. Re-seeding bare spots is a must at this time.  And in the event that bad weather (snow) should come before summer, the seed are safe in the ground and will not be hurt.  You will take joy in seeing the seed sprout.
  7. Kill broadleaf weeds as they appear in your flower bed.  I keep a can/container of weed killer on hand year round.  It really works.
  8. March is also a great time to transplant, or replant.  Transplanting from one area to another must be done soon, as the plants have already started their growth spurt.
  9. Start planning your flower garden.  On paper is a great place to start.  Then go surfing for the best plants for your area.  Many green houses, or nursery catalogues have specified garden plants for shade or for full sun.  Either way you can know what will grow in your yard and be ready for the ideal time to transplant.
  10. Then there is pruning.  Some ornamental trees and shrubs need pruning before growth starts.  However flowering shrubs, need not be pruned until the flowering stage is over.

Well, this has given me a yen for gardening.  By helping you – I have some new       ideas to incorporate into my projects of lawn and flower beds.

Filed under: utilities

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!