Spring in the Garden: Getting Ready for a New Season

Spring is a magical time in the garden. As temperatures rise and the days grow longer, plants begin to awaken, and there’s a sense of renewed energy in the air. It’s the perfect season to prepare your garden for the months ahead, planting new blooms, tending to existing beds, and ensuring your outdoor space thrives. Here are some essential tips for making the most of spring in the garden.

1. Clear Away Winter Debris

Start by giving your garden a good clean. Rake up fallen leaves, prune back any dead branches, and remove weeds that may have taken root over winter. Clearing away debris not only helps your garden look tidier but also reduces the risk of pests and diseases as new growth emerges. Once tidied, your garden beds are ready for fresh planting and mulching.

2. Prepare Your Soil

Spring is the ideal time to prepare your soil for the growing season. Dig in compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil with nutrients that will support healthy plant growth. A fresh layer of mulch can also help retain moisture and suppress weeds. For vegetable gardens, consider testing your soil’s pH levels, especially if you’ve noticed previous issues with crop growth.

3. Plant Spring Blooms

Nothing says spring like vibrant flowers. This is the time to plant early bloomers such as daffodils, tulips, crocuses, and primroses. These hardy flowers are well-suited to the cooler start of spring and will provide an instant burst of colour. If you’re planting new shrubs or perennials, aim for varieties that will bloom throughout the season to keep your garden looking fresh and lively.

4. Prune and Divide Perennials

Spring is an excellent time to prune flowering shrubs and to divide perennials that have outgrown their space. Dividing plants like hostas, daylilies, and asters helps rejuvenate them and encourages more blooms. Pruning shrubs like roses, hydrangeas, and fuchsias in early spring gives them the structure they need for strong growth in the warmer months.

5. Prepare for Wildlife

Spring is also a season of renewed activity for garden wildlife. Add a bird feeder or birdbath to encourage birds, which help with pest control. You can also consider building insect hotels or leaving a small patch of wildflowers to attract bees and butterflies.

Key Takeaways:

• Clear debris and prepare soil for healthy plant growth.
• Plant spring blooms for early colour and divide overgrown perennials.
• Welcome wildlife with bird feeders, water, and pollinator-friendly plants.

With a little preparation, you can transform your garden into a vibrant, welcoming space that celebrates the beauty of spring and sets the stage for a flourishing season ahead.