First things first
It's important to assess the state of your garden, and either thank or curse the yester-year-you for the state the garden is in after last season.
Take a walk around your yard and make note of any areas that need attention. Are there any dead plants that need to be removed? Are there any areas that need to be weeded? Once you have identified these areas, you can start to plan your approach.
Circle of life
One of the best things you can do for your garden in April is to start composting.
Composting is a great way to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your plants. Begin by gathering yard waste, such as leaves and twigs, and adding them to a compost bin.
You can also add kitchen scraps, such as fruit and vegetable peels, eggshells, and coffee grounds. Make sure to turn the compost regularly to ensure it stays aerated and to speed up the decomposition process. In just a few months, you'll have rich, organic soil that's perfect for planting.
One step back, two steps forward
Another essential task in April is pruning. Pruning helps keep plants healthy and encourages new growth. Start by removing any dead or damaged branches from trees and shrubs.
You should also prune any perennials that have become overgrown, being careful not to damage the new growth that's starting to emerge.
This is also a good time to cut back any dead foliage from plants that have gone dormant over the winter.
New beginnings
Now that you've taken care of the basics, it's time to start planning your garden. Think about what you want to plant and where you want to plant it.
Consider the amount of sun each area of your garden receives, as well as the soil type and drainage. This will help you choose plants that are suited to your garden's specific conditions. You can also use this time to plan your garden layout, grouping plants together based on their needs and aesthetic appeal.
In April, it's also a good idea to start planting some early-season vegetables and herbs. Some great options for this time of year include lettuce, spinach, peas, and kale.
These vegetables are cold-tolerant and can be planted as soon as the soil is workable. Herbs like chives, parsley, and thyme can also be planted now, adding fresh flavors to your cooking throughout the growing season.
Your grass can be greener...
Finally, don't forget about your lawn. April is the perfect time to give your lawn some attention. Begin by raking up any dead grass and debris that has accumulated over the winter.
You can also aerate your lawn, which helps improve soil drainage and encourages healthy root growth. Once you've completed these tasks, it's time to fertilize. Choose a fertilizer that's appropriate for your lawn type and apply it according to the instructions on the package. With a little bit of care, you'll have a lush, green lawn in no time.
In conclusion, April is a busy but exciting time for gardeners. By taking the time to assess your garden, compost, prune, plan, plant, and tend to your lawn, you'll be well on your way to a beautiful and bountiful growing season. Gardening is a wonderful way to connect with nature and to create something beautiful and productive. So get out there and get your hands dirty!
And as a bonus tip: keep track of your flowerbeds what you have planted where, as well as any other good-to-know information about your garden in Homer - the app for homeowners.
