Take the time now to plant bulbs, organize your garage or shed, repair and sharpen tools and get your compost pile going again. Here’s how:
GETTING ORGANIZED
If your garden shed isn’t heated or well-lit, you may encounter an unpleasant surprise or two when opening it back up for spring. The structure might have sustained damage from leaks or weather exposure. Rust can be an issue. Rodents or other small creatures may have taken up residence. When temperatures first begin to rise, inspect the shed and then get to work rectifying whatever issues you discover.
GARDENING TOOLS
Use a file to sharpen any tools with blades, including pruners, shears and loppers. Lubricate any tools with moving parts. If they’re still caked with mud from the last growing last season, wash them with a garden hose and then clean them in warm, soapy water. Next, use the same hose to thoroughly clean the wheelbarrow, then oil the wheels and tighten any loose bearings so it’s ready for the season ahead.
OTHER TASKS
Prune or remove any perennials that have become overgrown or congested. Replace outdated supplies since items like grass seeds may not remain viable over long periods of time. Take a quick look around to make sure you have plenty of any needed fertilizers and soil amendments for the upcoming year. If needed, consult with your local extension office to better understand the specific needs of your plants before they begin to sprout.
EARLY PLANTING
Now, you’re ready. Spring is the time to plant bulbs for them to bloom in summer and fall. Apply a fresh layer of mulch, too. Dyed mulches are generally designed to last for several seasons, but typically still need a slight refresh after the long winter. Mulching early will help with suppressing weed growth. It’s a good time to divide existing fall-blooming plants. Separating them now gives the individual plants time to re-
establish in their new locations. They’ll start developing the robust root systems they’ll eventually need when temperatures begin to drop again.