As the vibrant hues of spring begin to paint the landscape, it's the perfect time to transform your outdoor space into a blooming paradise. Embrace the season by infusing your garden with a burst of colors and fragrances. Springtime gardening not only enhances the beauty of your home but also creates a welcoming environment making it an investment.
1) Plant a Fruit Tree
To begin, select a fruit tree suitable for optimal production in your specific region. This decision largely hinges on your soil type and the "chill factor," which is the number of hours the temperature drops below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7.2 degrees Celsius) between November and February in your area. It's advisable to acquire fruit trees from a local nursery or a reputable online source instead of a big-box store. This ensures that you receive trees well-suited to your climate, grafted on root stock conducive to thriving in local soil conditions. For the best growth and sweetest fruit yields, plant your fruit trees in areas with at least six hours of full sun.
2) Hone Your Gardening Skills
Whether you're a novice in the gardening realm or a seasoned enthusiast, there are continual opportunities to expand your understanding of plants and design. Enroll in a class or attend a lecture focused on your preferred topic, whether it's container gardening, water gardens, pruning techniques, orchard care, or the art of creating an espalier. Consider exploring resources like Master Gardener programs, garden clubs, community colleges, and local botanical gardens, all offering diverse classes at various price points to cater to your interests and skill level.
3) Convert Part of Your Garden to Native Plants
Incorporating native plants into your garden can effectively reduce water and fertilizer consumption while creating habitat islands for native birds, bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. While a complete transition to an all-native landscape might not be on the horizon, contemplate the idea of introducing native species into mixed beds or dedicating a section of your backyard to pollinator-friendly plants. This step allows you to strike a balance between your existing garden and the benefits of supporting local ecosystems with native flora.
4) Try a New Planting Combination
As you welcome change in various aspects of your life, contemplate diversifying your planting routine too. Instead of opting for annual flowers for a burst of color, experiment with perennials that will return season after season. Have some fun at the nursery by trying out different planting combinations, placing together plants with similar light and water needs to observe how they enhance one another. You might discover unexpected and pleasing combinations that harmonize beautifully in your garden.
5) Hang a Bird Feeder
Support local birds and winter migrants by installing a feeder in your yard, especially during the season when food becomes scarce. Additionally, consider offering a water source, as cold climates may freeze existing water sources, leaving birds without access. Place a plant saucer filled with warm water to serve as a welcoming drinking and bathing spot for our feathered friends
6) Cut Down the Size of Your Lawn
If minimizing maintenance tasks or lowering landscape water consumption is a priority for you, one of the most effective strategies is to reduce the presence of turf grass. Replace portions of your lawn with a mix of low-water plants, ground covers suitable for walking, or permeable surfaces such as gravel or bark. This approach can help you achieve your goals while enhancing the sustainability of your outdoor space.
8. Plant a Climbing Rose
Enhance the allure of an arbor or outbuilding by adorning it with a climbing rose like the 'Bathsheba' variety from David Austin. This robust plant produces impressive 10-foot-long canes adorned with apricot-colored flowers exuding a classic tea and floral fragrance. Secure your roses promptly, as new varieties tend to sell out rapidly. Aim to plant them between January and mid-May, adjusting the timing according to your specific climate conditions.
Maybe this will give you some fresh ideas for springtime!
Best!
Basya
