Winter leaves its mark. Twigs scattered, leaves piled in forgotten corners, plants slumped over as if exhausted from the cold. The garden waits, patient but in need of a helping hand.
Spring has arrived, and it’s time to wake everything up.
Start with What Winter Left Behind
Before new growth takes over, clear out the remnants of the past season. Fallen branches, dead leaves, and any stubborn debris need to go. The soil, once hidden under frost and decay, needs to breathe again.
Rake gently, especially over delicate beds where perennials still sleep. Clear pathways, uncovering stone and brick that have been buried under months of neglect. Let light in. Let the garden see the sky again.
Pruning—The Art of Knowing What to Cut
Not everything that looks dead is gone. Some plants just need a trim, a chance to regrow stronger. But others? They’re done. Time to clear them out.
- Perennials—Snip away the dry, brittle stems from last season to make room for fresh shoots.
- Shrubs—Shape them up, removing weak or damaged branches to encourage new growth.
- Trees—Cut back anything broken by winter storms. If a branch looks dangerous, consider calling in an expert.
And for roses? Don’t be shy. A good spring pruning leads to a spectacular summer show.
Refresh the Soil—The Foundation of Everything
Winter drains the earth. It compacts the soil, strips it of nutrients, and leaves it tired. Time to revive it.
Loosen compacted beds with a fork or hoe, letting air and moisture in. Add compost—rich, dark, and full of life. If the ground is still too cold, wait a little before planting, but get it ready now. The roots will thank you later.
Mulch—Nature’s Blanket
Bare soil loses moisture. Weeds take over. The solution? Mulch.
A fresh layer of mulch locks in moisture, keeps roots cool, and stops weeds from taking over before the growing season even begins. Spread it thick enough to protect but not so thick that it suffocates the plants beneath.
Time to Plan and Plant
With the garden cleared and refreshed, the real fun begins. What will you add this year?
- Early spring flowers to bring color fast?
- A fresh batch of herbs for the kitchen?
- Vegetables that will thrive in the warming soil?
Think ahead. Plan for blooms that carry you through the season, for plants that feed both you and the pollinators that visit.
Conclusion
Spring cleanup isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about preparing for abundance. A little effort now means a season full of color, growth, and life.
Step back. Take a deep breath. The hard part is done. Now, let the growing begin.
