Spring is the ideal time to get the garden ready for the season ahead. After a long winter, there are plenty of jobs to be done to bring everything back into shape and support healthy, vigorous growth. The exact scope of work naturally depends on the size and nature of the garden.
- Garden tool maintenance and care
- Garden planning
- Soil preparation
- Soil improvement
- Lawn care
- Pruning shrubs and tree care
- Cutting back perennials and ornamental grasses
- Planting new plants
- Installing plant supports and trellises
- Checking irrigation systems
- Pest and disease prevention
- Pond and fountain maintenance
Garden tool maintenance and care
Before getting started outdoors, it is worth giving your tools some attention. Clean everything thoroughly, removing rust, dirt and any remaining plant material from last season. Sharpen blades on secateurs, hedge trimmers and lawnmowers to ensure clean cuts and efficient work. Check that sprayers and watering cans are working properly and replace any worn or damaged parts.
Garden planning
Before the season really gets underway, take time to plan your garden for the year ahead. Think about what you want to grow and where each plant will go, taking into account space requirements, soil conditions and light levels. A simple hand-drawn sketch is often enough to get a clear overview. For larger gardens, dedicated planning tools or software can also be helpful.
Soil preparation
Soil is the foundation for healthy plant growth. After winter, it is often compacted and heavily infested with weeds. Start by clearing the area thoroughly, using a hoe or spade to remove unwanted growth. Make sure to extract the roots as well to prevent regrowth.
Then loosen the soil to improve structure and aeration, allowing plants better access to nutrients and moisture. A garden fork or cultivator is ideal for working the soil to a depth of around 20–30 cm.
Soil improvement
Once the soil has been loosened, it’s time to feed it. A layer of well-rotted compost, around 5 cm thick, will significantly improve soil structure and fertility. Work it in lightly with a fork or spade. If needed, you can also add fertilisers such as horn shavings or a slow-release feed.
Lawn care
Lawns need a bit of attention in spring to recover from winter. Begin by clearing leaves, twigs and other debris. Then scarify the lawn to remove moss and thatch, improving airflow and encouraging strong, healthy growth. On compacted areas, an aerator will help relieve the soil and restore oxygen flow to the roots.
After scarifying, it is advisable to feed the lawn. Use a dedicated lawn fertiliser to provide the grass with the nutrients it needs for healthy regrowth. Around two weeks after applying fertiliser, the lawn can be mown for the first time, ideally leaving a cutting height of about 4–5 cm. Avoid cutting too short, as this weakens the grass and gives weeds an opportunity to establish themselves.
Pruning shrubs and trees
Spring is also the right time to prune trees, shrubs and hedges. Remove dead, damaged or crossing growth to keep plants healthy and well-structured. Always cut just above a bud or side shoot to encourage fresh growth.
With trees, remove dead or diseased branches and ensure cuts are clean and smooth to aid healing. On younger trees, remove inward-growing or competing branches to help develop a balanced crown.
Cutting back perennials and ornamental grasses
To prepare perennials and ornamental grasses for the new gardening season, they should be cut back in spring. Remove the old foliage from perennials and cut the plants down to roughly a hand’s width above ground level. Ornamental grasses are best cut back to around 10 cm above soil level. This allows them to regrow vigorously and results in fuller, denser growth in the new season.
Planting new plants
Once the garden has been tidied, the soil prepared and existing plants cared for, it’s time to introduce new plants. When purchasing, make sure they are healthy and vigorous, with no signs of disease or pest damage.
Plant according to your garden plan, paying attention to correct spacing and suitable site conditions. Water thoroughly after planting to support establishment.
Planting trowels make the work easier, and a hand bulb planter from Sneeboer is particularly useful when planting flower bulbs.
Installing plant supports and trellises
Some plants, such as climbing roses, clematis or sweet peas, require supports or trellises to grow in the right direction and establish a stable structure. Install trellis panels, plant supports or stakes early in spring so plants are not damaged and can develop properly.
If you are interested in working with willow, you’ll find a tutorial in our article »Willow-woven perennial supports«.
Check irrigation systems
In spring, take the time to prepare your watering and irrigation systems for the coming season. Inspect hoses, connectors and nozzles for any damage, and make sure all components are working properly. Plan an efficient, water-saving setup where possible—for example by using drip irrigation systems or harvested rainwater.
Pest and disease prevention
To help prevent pests and diseases in the garden, it is worth taking a few preventative steps in spring. Remove dead plant material and weeds, as these often harbour pests and disease pathogens. Ensure good air circulation around plants to reduce the risk of fungal infections, and rely on natural methods of pest control such as beneficial insects or biological treatments.
Pond and fountain maintenance
If your garden includes a pond or fountain, spring is the right time to get it back into shape. Remove algae and fallen leaves from the water to maintain good water quality. Check pumps and filtration systems to ensure they are working properly, and clean them if necessary. Make sure the water level is sufficient and top it up where needed.
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