The past few days, many Buffalonians were spending time outside in the parks, drinking on their favorite patio, or simply enjoying the outdoors.
It happens to us every spring, it feels as though summer is here to stay and then, bam, a May snowstorm hits, and we’re left wondering when the nice weather will return. It’s the typical Western New York spring.
Before you rush into starting your garden (very tempting) consider a few of these important tips to make sure your garden is the best it can be!
1. Draft and Develop
If it’s not yet Memorial Weekend, keep in mind that Western New York isn’t quite out of the danger zone for frost, several weeks away from our writing. As most seed packets will tell you, it’s common practice to keep plants inside for six to eight weeks before moving them outside.
2. Get your rain barrels ready to roll
If you’ve been watering your garden using natural rainwater, it’s safe to bring them out now. Not only do rain barrels offer a convenient source of water, but they’ll keep water where it falls so that it doesn’t overwhelm natural drainage.
If this is the first you’re hearing about rain barrels, you may also want to consider a rain garden!
3. Dry to do things the right way
It may seem like common sense, but, occasionally impulse gets the best of us. Try to avoid walking and or digging on wet topsoil in order to avoid compacting the soil. Compacted soil won’t drain well and makes it harder for roots to penetrate and grow. If your yard is wet and you can’t help yourself, try to focus on pulling weeds from sidewalks and pathways!
4. Give your yard some love
Take care of any litter that blew into your yard, pick up sticks, and rake leaves that are leftover from the fall.
5. Sharpen your “swords”
Early spring is the best time to do some pruning, as you’ll want to prune before your plants spend the energy to leaf out. Since you’re gonna be pruning, it’s best practice to get your tools sharp!
6. Trust the Process
Developing and executing a solid game plan for your garden that incorporates all the elements of your garden including permaculture (trees and shrubs), shade spots, and sunny spots is a surefire way to have a record-breaking summer.
If you’re looking for inspiration for your garden, it’s a great time to check out some of these Garden Views!
7. Protect your turf
Is your lawn looking like it’s got a case of helmet hair? Now is the time to plant some grass seed in those bald spots so that your yard grass will grow in full and not get stunted by the hot dry summer.
8. Mulch ado about nothing
A common way to make your garden stand out is to mulch around your plants. Be careful to avoid mulching until all your plants have grown out of the ground, or you may be covering up one of your precious plants!
9. Enjoy!
We get it, you want to get outside and work in the garden, but if it’s to wet to dig, pull out your favorite lawn chair, cue up some tunes, crack a cold one, and just enjoy yourself. After this past year, spend some time slowing down and enjoying your health and the warmer weather.
If you’re looking to get your dream yard, but don’t know how or what exactly you’re looking for, contact us today and we’ll help you achieve a championship-caliber yard and garden!