With less than two weeks until spring, there are many quick and easy tasks you can do to ensure your lawn is ready for the warmer weather.  We have provided a handful of tips that take only a few moments, and if you need additional assistance, we are here to help!

Overall Plant Health

While plants can certainly thrive by simply planting them in the ground and watering them every so often, one key factor is the actual plant health.  A soil test kit, which cost about $10 at your local home and garden store, will test the pH balance of the soil.  Most plants will flourish with a pH between 6 and 7, but there are variances, of course.  Having the proper balance will ensure a longer life of the plants, greater resistance in the changing climate, as well as resistance to bugs and insects.

Mulching

Don’t you just love the way a flowerbed looks with new mulch?  Remove the old mulch and replace with about 2-3 inches of new mulch.  This will help the plants and shrubbery maintain proper moisture levels and minimize weeds.  You can also put down 1-2 layers of weed barrier under the mulch.  This will further minimize the growth of unwanted grass or weeds.  Compost or shredded mulch works best around plants and flowers, and rubber mulch is often recommended around trees or large bushes if you want to maintain a higher chance of reducing weeds over time.

Lawnmower + Power Tools

Have you ever thought about checking your lawnmower?  Many homeowners simply check the oil or gas and start cutting their lawn.  However, it’s important to consider checking the blade and ensure that it is sharp.  A dull blade can improperly cut grass, tearing it.  This can result in infection and stun proper growth.

More than just Plants

Plants are beautiful.  They provide pops of color and designs that can carry a unique look throughout the season.  To further accentuate this, consider inanimate objects as well.  A pair of lawn chairs, a bird bath, or perhaps a reclaimed wood plank or pottery.  Adding these elements helps make your property a bit more personal and colorful!

Check Your Hand Tools and Equipment

This may seem a bit obvious, but some tools can rust over the winter, and you simply want to be sure that everything is in proper working order.  If you have an irrigation system, be sure to have that properly tested and check the timers you may also have installed.


Professional Landscape Design for Your Home

Rhine Landscaping has the tools to make your yard beautiful throughout the year, so trust us with all of your landscaping and poolscaping needs. We have the expertise and knowledge to complete any and all of the landscaping projects on your list. For more information about our services, visit us online or give us a call at (410) 442-2445. For more tips on how to keep your yard and pool looking great year round.