Are you in need of a few good gardening tips as springtime approaches? Whether you’re new to your DFW home or you’re just looking to reinvigorate your garden after the winter season, there are some essential things you should know if you want to see your garden thrive. Grab a pair of gardening gloves and let’s get started!
1. Complete a tool tune-up. It’s frustrating when you’re ready to work in the yard, but something is broken or not running quite right. Now’s the time to get your lawnmower tuned up and the blades sharpened. It’s also a good idea to clean and sharpen all tools, and make a checklist of the items you’ll need to replace.
2. Get to pruning. Allow new growth to spring forth by removing dead branches and selectively pruning shrubs and trees. Don’t be overzealous though — it’s better to be conservative with what you trim away. You can’t piece branches back together once they’re cut.
3. Keep bugs at bay. Once temperatures stay above freezing, it’s a good time to apply insect control such as a horticultural insect spray. And here’s some useful information to help you plan: The last average frost in Dallas typically occurs between March 1 and March 10.
4. Test your soil. This is one of those gardening tips that’s easy to forget, but can really make a big difference. A garden is only as good as the soil it’s growing in, so take time to learn as much as possible about your soil. For example, do you know if your garden has soil that is acidic or alkaline? Here’s an easy way to find out.
5. Take a look around. A lush, colorful garden doesn’t happen overnight. It takes plenty of attention and care. Once a week or so, spend 15 minutes just wandering around your garden. Look for any signs of trouble such as insects or diseases. Don’t be afraid to get down on the ground. Most disease start on lower leaves and then spread up. And turn those leaves over, too. Many insects prefer the underside of foliage.
6. Add decorative elements. While the colorful blossoms can certainly stand alone, it’s always nice to add a few beautifying touches to a garden. Think about installing a hummingbird feeder or birdbath to draw more of nature’s beauty into your yard.
By taking some time to prepare your garden for spring, you’re setting the stage for a picturesque season. Happy gardening!
Image Source: Flickr/SR Photies
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