Every year as spring approaches, we look forward to getting our garden, lawns, and patios set up for a fun summer, full of evenings at home and weekend chores (for better or worse). So, we have put together a list of some best practices for getting your greenery (and more) under control.
Garden
- Go hunt for rocks and use them to edge and pattern your garden.
- You can save some money by buying plants that come in large bundles, like hostas and lilies, and dividing them when planting.
- Do not be afraid of colour! Use colourful blooms and leaves in your garden will really make it stand out!
- Adding light will make your garden stand out during all times of day. This can be as complex as installing electronics or as basic as painting stones in glow-in-the-dark paint.
- Combine plants of varying heights to add depth.
- Make sure you know as much as you can about your local area before you plant. For example, if you are interested in planting annuals this spring, make sure you know your local frost dates.
- Bring back the bees! Did you know the bees are responsible for 1 in 3 of every bite of food we take? Order your sunflower seeds from Cheerios (or learn how to make your own bee seed mix here).
Lawn
- Do a deep clean of your lawn! Clean up any excess twigs, as well as leftover leaves and stray rocks (especially before mowing).
- Dethatch and aerate your lawn. These two steps will help keep your lawn healthy and lush for years to come! To learn more about the two (and what the difference is) check out this article from Green Acres Landscaping.
- Test your soil’s pH balance. We like to do this about once a season (though you can do this just once a year, too). It’s important to know what your soil’s pH level is to know what kind of plants you should plant, as well as what kind of fertilizer you should buy.
- Since you finally have some time, why not take this opportunity to clean your lawn mower for the season? It is always good to give your tools a once over, and the beginning of the season is the perfect time.
- Mow high! Tall grass sinks deeper roots (which can seek out moisture) and crowds out weeds. Your lawn will thank you.
Patio
- While you are cleaning your tools, why not take the time to also clean your patio furniture! Sometimes your furniture needs some TLC, so take the time to refinish, repair, or revamp the pieces you may have been putting off.
- Incorporating potted plants into your landscaping is a great way to give your patio some much loved greenery without going through the trouble of creating a whole new garden bed.
- In preparation for summer, research what kind of natural bug repellants you can plant by your patio. Here is a helpful infographic for you to refer to.
For all your gardening and landscaping needs, check out some of these shops in Durham region:
Uxbridge Farmer’s Market
Vandermeer Nursery
Sheridan Nurseries
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