Planting season is almost here and we’re embracing the warmer weather with open arms (especially after the cold and snowy winter we’ve had here in Southern Maryland). If you’re looking to have the best lawn and garden yet, it’s time to start planning and getting your yard ready. While it might be a little too early to plant outside, there are many things you can do to prepare now.
Clean Up Flower Beds and Gardens from Dead Shrubbery
Start with going through your gardens and flower beds and remove any dead plants that won’t come back in the coming months. Remove fallen sticks and leaves, and any other debris that may have fallen during the winter months.
Fertilize Your Lawn
Now is the time to start fertilizing and spreading grass seed (as-needed) onto your lawn. Check the weather forecast and plan to spread the seed and fertilizer before a predicted rain, to give your lawn a head-start on growing full and beautiful.
Invest in Mulch
Mulching your flower beds will help keep weeds down, moisture in, and will help to keep your plants looking their best. Now is the time to start preparing to mulch your beds. Start planning where you’ll spread mulch, the color you’re looking for, and how much you’ll need. Over the next few weeks, it will be time to plant new plants and start spreading your mulch.
Inspect Garden Tools and Replace as Necessary
Inspect your garden hose, tools and sprinkler systems to ensure everything is functioning properly. Sharpen your lawn mower blade, re-string your weed eater, and change the oil in your equipment to make sure it’s ready to go when it’s time to start your lawn care. If needed, replace those items and prepare everything you’ll need to keep your lawn and garden well-functioning.
Plant Seeds Indoors
Start doing your research and find out what seeds and plants can be planted now, that won’t be affected if we have frost in the upcoming days. If you’re thinking of starting a garden from seeds, consider planting your seeds now in containers and letting them grow indoors until it is time to transplant them outdoors.
