Can’t you just feel the approach of spring? The light feels brighter and days are distinctly longer. As the sap rises in the trees and the buds begin to swell, the pulse quickens and spirits soar. It’s time to get moving in the garden!
Things To Do This Month
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Cut some forsythia and pussy willow branches for indoor forcing. Place in water and keep in a cool place until the buds are swollen. Then move them to a location where they can be viewed as the blooms burst forth. A lovely prelude to spring.
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As snow melts, start clean up process. Twigs and other debris can be removed. Protect the still wet areas of grass and beds by first placing cardboard or wood planks and stepping on those instead. They help distribute the weight better.
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Later in the month, remove protective burlap and/or plastic wrappings and wind breaks.
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Get tools sharpened. This includes the mower blades.
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Commence indoor seed sowing. Begin with the early, cool weather crops. Read seed packet instructions and calculate dates for planting out.
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Order plants that will be required for the garden as soon as the ground has warmed up. Let your local nursery know your needs – they will inform you know when shipments arrive.
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As soon as possible, once snow is all gone and soil has thawed, spread compost on all the beds including the vegetable plot.
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Finish pruning fruit trees, grape vines and roses early in the month.
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Take an inventory and stock up on whatever is lacking. Soil, gloves, mulch, stakes, twine, tools, water retaining crystals, grass seed, pots, hoses etc.,
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Survey the garden and see what needs replacing, repairing or painting. Schedule and do the needful.
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Start bringing out or uncovering outdoor furniture. It’ll soon be time to linger outdoors!
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Get Open Days directory from Garden Conservancy – www.gardenconservancy.org. Mark your calendars to visit beautiful gardens in your area. Come to my Open Day on May 14 between 10 am and 4 pm. I’m looking forward to seeing you!
Let’s get on with it.
Current glimpses of what’s doing in my garden –
Swelling buds on climbing hydrangea
Snowdrops braving the snow
Hyacinths coming along indoors
My watercolor of a snowdrop
Forced bulbs from a past year
(c) 2022 Shobha Vanchiswar
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