Memo To Self: Spring Landscaping To-Do's
The term landscaping covers a wide array of activities and projects, but there are a few things people will want to do during spring time to prepare for the coming summer. There are three projects that can help the health and the look of your yard. They include:
1. Ensuring proper drainage
2. Preparing for planting and planting beds
3. Seeding to thicken your lawn
Improving Your Drainage: Things to Consider
Proper drainage can minimize or eliminate potentially thousands of dollars of damage to your home. Damage ranges from water in the basement or window well, rotting siding, dead plants or water standing on the lawn and eroded retaining walls.
To improve your yard’s drainage, be sure to do the following:
• Slope your yard away from house (minimum 10')
• Be sure there is a minimum 5" distance between your siding and the finish grade
• Eliminate standing water
Spring Is The Best Time To Plant And Transplant
The first thing you’ll want to do is make sure your planting beds have the proper topsoil depth and quality and compost should be worked into the soil prior to planting. The depth of flower beds should be 8" to 12" of good topsoil. Inadequate soil should be removed and replaced before planting. Installing plantings in the spring takes advantage of the cooler temperatures and more consistent rains.
Good drainage, prepared planting beds, and seeding bare spots in your lawn can lead to a healthier, greener and more enjoyable yard.
