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Spring cleaning checklist
We still have some time before the offical start of spring, but it isn’t too early to be thinking about warmer weather. Here is list of the dos and don’ts for you outdoor spaces!
THE LAWN
Do give it a rake! Not only will you help loosen the thatch (grass clippings from last year) you will also stimulate new growth as you reduce compaction of the surface roots. Spring is the only time to rake the lawn, so be thorough and use a flexible leaf rake versus a stiff garden rake to ensure you don’t cause too much damage.
Don’t roll your lawn in the spring! Packing down the waterlogged soil might seem like a good idea to creating a smooth lawn. Unfortunately, all you are doing is compacting the roots, making it tougher for new grass shoots to grow.
Do add new grass seed. This year, go with a blend of grass seed that includes some rye and fescue grasses. Having diversity in your lawn is great for a few reasons, including reducing insect damage and the lawn turning yellow in the hot months.
THE TREES
Don’t prune spring flowering trees and shrubs. We get too excited every spring and try and make everything look perfect as soon as possible and end up pruning off all of the flowering buds. Instead, wait for the flowers to be done for the season before you prune so that the tree has time to develop new buds for next spring.
Do remove the leaves from anywhere they collected before the snow fell last fall. These rotting leaves are great for the composter, but are terrible for the lawn as they suffocate any spring growth. Also, leaf mold (which helps during the decay process) is terrible for allergy sufferers!
Don’t unwrap your young cedars until the buds on the maple trees start to form. This will allow the ground be thawed enough for your cedars to get a drink, which is very important to the photosynthesis process. Be patient, it doesn’t take that long.
THE GARDEN
Do clean up everything that is dead and mushy, including leaves and stalks from your perennials. This will improve their overall health and help discourage bugs and slugs from paying a visit
Don’t mulch too soon. Putting down mulch on to cold soil will keep the cold in the ground longer! Wait until the ground is thawed at least 12 inches deep before adding a layer of mulch
Do leave your tulip and daffodil leaves on until they turn yellow. The longer you leave them alone, the more energy they can provide to next year’s bulbs. Once the leaves go yellow, its time to remove them and you are done until next spring!
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