Spring Yard Cleanup

Spring is in the air! Now is the time to get some basic spring yard maintenance done. Here are some simple tips to help prepare you for a beautiful yard and lush garden this summer.

1. Prune 

Pruning is one of the best things you can do for plants in your yard. Due to the cold and snow, tree and shrub branches can get damaged. You'll get thicker foliage, more flowers and healthier plants by pruning. So, start removing those dead, diseased, and damaged stems. Oftentimes, scissors work best for removing dead leaves and stalks from perennials and ornamental grasses. While you are pruning, you can also look for any early weeds that need to be pulled up.


2. Rake Your Yard 

Dead leaves and fallen foliage can smother plants and foster disease. It's important to rake up the fallen debris that is around your yard and covering your plants. Pull out by hand those areas (like flowerbeds) that you can't reach with a rake. Be careful if the ground is wet when you are raking. Vigorous raking can uproot the grass plants and be harmful. Raking will also help control thatch build-up as well. Remember, you can save the the debris you rake up to create mulch.


3. Lawn Care

Remove turf damaged by salt, plows, or disease to prepare for the seeding that should follow in a few weeks. Winter can alter soil pH, compact the soil, and create conditions friendly to weeds and disease. Also, check your grass for matted patches that could signal the development of snow mold. It's crucial that you properly clean, fertilize and mow your yard early in the season in order to have a healthy lawn all summer long.

4. Patios & Decks 

Sweep and water-off your patios, decks and outside furniture. Due to the harsh winter season, you may need to put another layer of lacquer on your outdoor abode once the temperature warms up. For wood decks, look for worn-out wood that’s splitting, twisting or rotting. Sand splintered areas and hammer in any popped-up nails. Concrete, stone, brick and tile patios should be searched for any sign of cracks or crumbling areas.

5. Fences & Gates 

Remove badly rotted or damaged pickets, boards, or lattice, then scrub wood structures clean with water and liquid soap mixed together. Scrape off old paint and sand wood to smooth. When the temperature is warmer, you can repaint or re-coat with lacquer.

6. Clean Your Gutters 

Find a good scooper to clean out the gutters. You can make one from an empty milk or juice jug by cutting off the bottom of the jug and using the handled part of the jug as your scooper. For those hard-to-reach areas, use the garden hose. When using your ladder, place a rubber mat under it to prevent sliding or sinking into the ground. 

Now, you are on your way to a successful summer by implementing these simple spring yard cleanup tips. Plus, getting out into the fresh spring air and being physically active in your yard will invigorate and revitalize you.