As we move deeper into the heart of winter, it’s important to keep in mind that the time to prepare for garden landscaping will soon be upon us. Here in the northeast, March 17th, Saint Patrick’s Day, is the “go” date for garden prep and planting, presumably being just past the frost timeline. A much anticipated time of year, avid gardeners are using this downtime to start planning for their different landscape and garden designs. In order to put yourself in the best position to start the gardening process come March, there are a few basic preparations that need to be undertaken.
Check Your Tool Selection
Of course, you won’t be able to start gardening effectively without the proper tools. Even if you had all the tools you needed last year, this is a good time to make sure none have gone missing, and they are in good working order. Regardless of your landscape design intentions, the following tools will come in very handy:
- Spade
- Metal rake
- standard and spade shovel
- Wheelbarrow
- Hoe
- Garden hose
- Tool caddy
- Gardening gloves
Preparing Your Garden Area
In order to create an attractive landscape design, you will need to prepare and cultivate the area that you intend on gardening. Whether you have a designated section of land from the previous year or a new area all together, you will need to ensure that the land is level to accept whatever additions you intend to make. Remove any debris like removable roots, rocks and sticks and then you’ll want to rake the area or bed that you will be gardening. This will ensure that the growing area is able to host different forms of vegetation. At this point, you should also look for any bulbs that are still beneath the surface so that they are not damaged.
Now, re-soil and re-mulch the garden to provide a healthy growing area. Pavers and Walkways When it comes to the landscape of your home, some of your best design options are to connect your garden sections with paver walkways, border areas with edge stones and define beds with garden walls. A local HardscapingTM contractor can help you design your backyard and garden walkways and retaining walls. Reach out now before the spring hits and their schedules back up so you can have your landscape complete and ready to enjoy when the outdoor times of spring and summer arrive.