The nice weather is officially here, which means summer is just around the corner! It’s time to start preparing your garden for the warm and sunny days ahead. What better way to get some fresh air and sunlight than by spending quality time tending to your flowers, herbs and veggies.
Our Spring Garden Guide has information on what flowers, vegetables, trees and shrubs should be planted during the springtime.
Flowers
- Pansies, primroses, daffodils, crocuses, and perennial plants, like hyacinths, are recommended for planting in in early spring.
- Lilies and hostas should be planted after March 1.
- Trees and shrubs can be planted later in the month.
- When you’re finished planting, feed your seeds slow-release flower food. You can do this by pouring a tiny tablespoon into each hole. Next, mix the food into the soil with your fingers to help the seeds grow faster.
Vegetables
- Any cool weather vegetables, like arugula, corn, salad, kale, peas, radishes, lettuce and spinach, should be planted now.
- Keep tending to vegetables which were planted in the fall.
- Add manure or compost to any vegetable beds in your garden.
- If you’ve purchased seeds from a garden centre, follow the instructions on the package.
Trees and shrubs
- Early spring is a good time to plant deciduous trees, shrubs, hedges and vines.
- Poplar, willow, ash and birch trees tend to thrive better when planted in spring.
- Evergreen trees can be planted approximately 4 weeks after deciduous trees have been planted.
- Flowering shrubs, like lilacs, magnolias and hydrangeas, should be pruned now.
Spring landscaping
Along with planting, you can add new design features to your outdoor garden. Here are some popular spring garden trends to inspire you:
Zen gardens
A Zen garden will help provide peace and relaxation. Place a few comfortable chairs near the garden and enjoy the beautiful sights and soothing sounds.
Fire pits
You don’t have to go camping to have a campfire! Backyard fire pits provide extra warmth and produce light. Before having a campfire in your backyard, check to make sure open air burning is allowed in your neighbourhood. If backyard fire pits are allowed, follow fire safety protocols and dispose of the ashes after you’re done.
Rain barrels
Help conserve water by having a rain barrel in your backyard. Rustic or DIY-crafted barrels can collect rainwater, which can be reused for your garden. They’re easy to install and maintain, and can really spruce up your garden.
Happy gardening!