April showers bring May flowers, as the saying goes, and at Estes Landscaping, we’re all about embracing the full bloom of spring. With the ground thawing and the days growing longer, April is a prime month for gardeners and landscape enthusiasts to get their hands dirty and their gardens flourishing. Here are our top tips for making the most of this vibrant season.
Kickstart Your Lawn Care
April is the perfect time to give your lawn a little TLC. Start with a thorough raking to remove thatch, leaves, and debris. Apply a spring lawn fertilizer to encourage healthy growth, and consider overseeding any bare spots. If weeds are a concern, early April is a great time to apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weed seeds from germinating.
Plant Spring and Summer Blooms
Now is the time to plant a variety of flowers for spring and summer display. Hardy annuals, perennials, and even some bulbs can be planted in April. For an instant splash of color, consider adding container plants and hanging baskets filled with cold-tolerant annuals like pansies and snapdragons, which can withstand the still-chilly nights.
Vegetable Garden Prep
For the vegetable gardeners, April is a busy month. Prepare your beds by turning the soil and adding compost or other organic matter. Early crops such as lettuce, peas, carrots, and radishes can be sown directly into the ground. Warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers should be started indoors or purchased as seedlings, ready to be transplanted after the last frost date.
Pruning and Cleanup
Continue with spring cleanup tasks by pruning shrubs and trees. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to encourage healthy growth. Pruning also helps to shape your plants and improve their overall appearance and performance. Be sure to research the best pruning times and techniques for specific plants in your garden.
Mulching and Weed Control
Applying a fresh layer of mulch not only enhances the look of your beds but also helps to retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Aim for a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around trees, shrubs, and in garden beds, being careful not to pile it against plant stems or tree trunks.
Irrigation System Check
Before the heat of summer arrives, ensure your irrigation system is in top shape. Check for leaks, broken sprinkler heads, or any other issues. Adjust your watering schedule for the warmer weather, typically watering deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth.
Enjoy the Spring Display
Take time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. April’s landscape transformation is a reward in itself. The blooming of daffodils, tulips, and cherry blossoms, along with the budding of trees, provides a spectacular display. It’s a reminder of nature’s resilience and beauty, and the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities.
Estes Landscaping Services
At Estes Landscaping, we’re here to help you achieve your perfect spring garden. From design and installation to maintenance and advice, our team of experts is ready to assist with all your landscaping needs. Let’s make this April one to remember with a landscape that’s bursting with life and color.
