Five Signs Spring Is On It's Way

We will be taking a break this week from planning our outdoor space and look forward to March 20 2011, the first day of spring!

Only 11 days away, it feels as though this spring is springing upon us just in time. With this winter seemingly extra difficult on even the most hardy of us, it's time to celebrate an end, and a beginning. Warmer, longer days will give you more time to enjoy the outdoors and improve your landscape.

Here are five things to look forward to doing in the very near future:

1. Spring clean-ups. All of that heavy, wet snow this year has surely taken a toll on the trees around your property. Take the time to pick up your yard early and take advantage of the burning season! (Contact your local regarding details)
2. Re-mulching of flower beds. After you have removed all of those dead branches from your yard, get ready to bring some color into your life!
3. Dethatching and aerating your lawn. Removing old clippings from the ground will allow your spring fertilization to be extra productive. Aerating your lawn will assist in providing nutrients and air to where your lawn needs them the most; at the roots!
4. Plant a tree! Early spring or late fall is the best time of year to avoid the stresses of heat and drought that can cause severe stress to newly planted trees. As a matter of fact, April 30 is National Arbor Day. Click here to find out more!
5. Watch all of the spring bulbs that were planted last fall emerge, and the rest of your landscape come back to life. You deserve it! Make sure you take this time so you can gain a real appreciation of what you do every day in your own landscape or what your pro does for you.

No matter how you slice it, spring is a great time to come back to life for both your landscape and yourself. Take some time, relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor this spring!

And now for some trivia: Click on the photo of flower and name it, it's that easy. First correct answer wins! You could earn money towards your own spring clean up.

Questions or Comments regarding today’s column? Do you have an answer to today's trivia question?  E-mail me at: jrocharz@welldonelandscapes.com.

 John Rocharz is owner of Well Done Landscapes of Lakeville, and has over nine years of experience in the landscaping field, specializing in stone masonry and design. He is also an ICPI certified paver installer and a member of the organization of Massachusetts Landscape Professionals.