By Benedict Vanheems, 2 March 2024
As the weather warms and spring approaches, it’s the perfect time to prepare your garden for a flourishing season ahead. From planting new crops to protecting delicate seedlings, here are ten important gardening tasks to help set you up for success.
1. Water Your Seedlings Regularly
Spring is a time of rejuvenation, but with new growth comes the need for consistent watering. Check seedlings and plants daily, especially those under protection, such as in greenhouses, where natural rainfall doesn’t reach. Lift pots and trays to feel their weight—if they seem light, it’s time to water.
2. Prepare for Late Frosts
While spring signals warmer weather, don’t let your guard down. Frosts can still strike in many regions, even in USDA hardiness zone 8. If a frost is forecast, bring frost-sensitive seedlings indoors. Cold-tolerant vegetables will likely be fine, but recent transplants should be covered with frost cloths or other protective materials to ensure they stay warm.
3. Prune Perennials for New Growth
Now is the time to cut back the old growth of herbaceous perennials. Although leaving dead stems over winter offers shelter for bugs, it’s essential to clear space for fresh growth. Cut the old stems back to the ground, and consider composting or leaving them nearby to allow any remaining critters to move out naturally. As the old material breaks down, it will nourish the soil.
4. Tidy Up Your Herbs
Prune your herbs to promote fresh, dense growth. Remove any weeds around them and tidy up old, dead stems to make way for new shoots. Consider planting new, hardy herbs like parsley to kickstart your herb garden for the season.
5. Mow the Lawn Carefully
As your lawn begins to grow again, it’s time for the first mow of the season. Set your mower to its highest setting to avoid scalping the grass. This prevents giving moss an advantage, and as the weather warms, you can gradually lower the mower height to your desired level.
6. Plant Onions and Shallots
Early spring is ideal for planting onions and shallots. Whether you started them from seed or bought sets, choose a sunny spot with fertile soil, like a previously mulched bed. Space your alliums 6 inches (15 cm) apart in a block pattern, leaving just the tips poking out of the soil. Water well to help establish the plants and stay vigilant against weeds that could outcompete your crops.
7. Plant Cauliflowers for the Season
Cauliflowers need rich soil and ample space to thrive. Plant them about 18 inches (45 cm) apart in a sunny spot. To protect them from late cold snaps and birds, cover them with a temporary cloche. Once they’re established, you can remove the cover and let them grow freely.
8. Plant Strawberries for a Sweet Summer
Spring is also a great time to plant strawberries. Whether you’re buying potted plants or bare-root runners, strawberries can thrive when planted in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Ensure proper spacing to allow for their spreading habit, and look forward to a rewarding harvest in a few months.
9. Set Up Plant Supports Early
To save time later in the season, set up supports for your vining plants like tomatoes and cucumbers now. Install vine eyes in your greenhouse or hoop house frame, run galvanized wire between them, and tie strong string to support the vines. This will make it easier to train your plants as they grow and prevent the need for last-minute scrambling.
10. Tackle Perennial Weeds
Spring marks the return of pesky perennial weeds like nettles and bindweed. Don’t wait until they’re fully grown—get a jump start by loosening the soil and removing their roots and rhizomes. While nettles are valuable for caterpillars, it’s important to keep them from overtaking your garden. A balanced, proactive approach to weeds will give your plants the best chance to thrive.
By staying ahead of these tasks, you’ll ensure your garden is set up for a thriving and productive growing season. Keep up with these chores and watch your efforts pay off as your plants flourish all season long!