Here’s a guide on when to tackle tasks in your garden:
“Disclosure: Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links provided in this article.”
Whether you’re a new homeowner or a seasoned one, the spring season can bring an overwhelming amount of yard work. While planting flowers and setting up outdoor furniture is enjoyable, there are numerous other tasks required to maintain a tidy and livable yard and garden.
To assist you, we’ve developed a step-by-step timeline for starting your backyard landscaping journey. This guide is designed to be manageable, allowing you to achieve a beautiful yard while still having time for the warm-weather activities you love, such as barbecuing and relaxing in your garden.
Before diving into garden chores, there are a couple of things to consider. First, determine the type of grass you have. Warm-season grasses thrive in the South and grow actively during warmer periods, while cool-season grasses, common in the northern regions, flourish during cooler times. Unsure about your grass type? Consult your local university cooperative extension service for guidance.
Additionally, if you’re uncertain about the perennials and shrubs in your garden, observe their blooming patterns this year to identify optimal times for pruning. Utilize plant identification apps like iNaturalist or seek advice from gardening neighbors to learn more about the plant varieties in your yard.
Lastly, familiarize yourself with your USDA Hardiness Zone, as these classifications have recently been updated. Knowing your zone is crucial for selecting perennial and shrub varieties that can withstand the winter conditions in your region. Find your zone by visiting the USDA website.
Read on to discover when to kickstart your spring backyard landscaping according to our experts:
– Natalie Carmolli, public relations specialist at Proven Winners
– Kat Aul Cervoni, landscape designer and founder of Staghorn NYC landscape and design firm and The Cultivation by Kat gardening site
– Clint Waltz, PhD, turfgrass scientist at the University of Georgia
Spring: March/April/May
– Conduct a spring cleanup by removing debris, weeds, and applying fresh mulch.
– Divide overgrown perennials and grasses like irises, catmint, and hostas.
– Trim back summer-blooming shrubs such as panicle hydrangeas and roses for a bushier habit.
– Remove dead tree limbs and seek professional advice if necessary.
– Trim back perennials and clean up the garden to support beneficial insects.
– Document spring-blooming plants for reference.
Prepare for planting bulbs or use a garden marker to remember their location so you can avoid disturbing them with new plantings later in the season after the foliage has died back. Make sure your lawn equipment and irrigation system are ready for the season. Sharpen your mower blades for a clean cut that benefits the grass, and ensure your sprinkler heads are working properly to water the grass effectively. Begin mowing at the correct height for your grass species and fertilize at the appropriate time. Apply pre-emergent weed control before weeds sprout, and plant spring flowers, edibles, and shrubs once the last frost date has passed for your area. Fertilize spring perennials and shrubs and continue caring for your garden through the summer months by planting warm-season flowers and edibles, fertilizing, watering, and mowing as needed.
Get a good understanding of your water usage per hour. Monitor weed growth and consider additional pre-emergent applications for warm season grasses, or spot treat with herbicides as needed. Keep an eye out for diseases and pests; seek guidance from local extension services for identification and treatment plans. Take soil samples for cool season lawns to adjust soil pH if necessary.
In fall, adjust mowing frequency based on grass type. Irrigate accordingly, fertilize cool season grasses, and watch for turf pests. Plant new perennials, shrubs, and trees, and spring-flowering bulbs. Allow perennials to stand over winter for beneficial insects, clean up leaves, and store garden tools.
During winter, perform a general lawn cleanup and consider taking soil samples for struggling warm season lawns. Force spring-flowering shrubs indoors for early blooms. Order seeds, bulbs, and plants for spring planting.
Explore the top picks for your garden (and indulge in daydreams of spring!). Many nurseries will deliver when it’s time to plant in your area. Don’t forget to follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok for more inspiration. Check out 15 Home Bar Gifts for Cocktail Lovers and 32 Low Light Indoor Plants for dim spaces. Discover the 50 Best Paint Colors for your Living Room.
