What Does a Spring Cleanup Entail?

While the holiday season is upon us, spring will be here before you know it so it’s important to prepare to clean up your landscape. Whether that’s by having all of the right tools and products on hand or booking a consultation with a professional, spring cleanup plays a critical role in creating a successful landscape design. Check out the following section for a step-by-step guide on how to rejuvenate your landscape next spring:

1. Assess Your Landscape

• Walk around your property to identify areas that need attention.
• Take note of any dead plants, overgrown areas, and damage to trees, shrubs, or hardscapes.

2. Remove Debris

• Rake Leaves and Twigs: Clear out any fallen leaves, branches, and other debris.
• Clean Beds: Remove dead annuals, cut back perennials, and pull weeds.
• Dispose of Waste: Compost organic materials or bag debris for pickup.

3. Prune and Trim

• Shrubs and Trees: Prune dead or damaged branches. Shape shrubs and hedges as needed.
• Perennials: Cut back old growth to allow fresh growth to emerge.
• Fruit Trees: Prune before buds break to encourage healthy fruiting.

4. Lawn Care

• Rake the Lawn: Remove thatch buildup to improve air and water penetration.
• Aerate if Needed: Use an aerator to relieve soil compaction.
• Overseed Bare Spots: Reseed any areas with thinning grass.
• Fertilize: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.

5. Clean Hardscapes

• Patios & Walkways: Sweep and pressure wash to remove grime and moss buildup.
• Garden Edging: Re-establish clean borders around garden beds and pathways.

6. Prepare Planting Areas

• Add Compost or Mulch: Enrich the soil with compost and lay fresh mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture.
• Turn the Soil: Loosen compacted soil in garden beds to prepare for new plants.

7. Inspect Irrigation

• Check Systems: Inspect sprinklers, drip lines, and hoses for leaks or damage.
• Adjust Settings: Ensure your system is set up to fit your garden’s watering needs.

8. Plan New Plantings

• Choose Plants: Select plants for your landscape design that are suited to your climate and soil conditions.
• Divide Perennials: Divide overcrowded plants to encourage healthy growth and fill other areas.

9. Address Pests & Disease Issues

• Inspect Plants: As you are removing debris and overturning soil, check for signs of pests or diseases and treat them early.
• Apply Preventatives: Use pest deterrents or fertilizers that deter harmful insects.

For those interested in hiring a professional, the landscape design team at Bridgers Lawn & Landscape is here to help. No matter the size of your space, we’re equipped to give it the TLC that it deserves. For years, we’ve proudly served homeowners in and around Wilson, Rocky Mount, Raleigh, NC and the surrounding areas. If you’re eager to learn more, reach out to our landscape design company today!