Spring always feels like an impossibility after the dark days of winter. But then, one warm sunny morning once the rains have cleared—you start to see them. Tiny green shoots from the daffodils and tulips, small silvery green leaves at the base of your lavender, or even the promising buds of a lilac or forsythia.
Spring has arrived, and no matter where you left off in your garden plans last fall—there’s a lot you can do now to ensure the health of your summer garden. Here are some of my favorite springtime practices to help you build your best garden yet.
Some of my seed-haul for this spring
Prune away the dead foliage
Pruning is actually good for your plants, so don’t be afraid to grab a pair of snips and have at it! The key with pruning is to know just how much each plant needs. Perennials like roses and lavender can be tricky, so it’s worth taking a moment to learn just what kind of haircut they like best.
Another way to tell how much pruning a plant needs? Learn where the new growth comes in. Check old branches for buds, or the base of your plant for new green shoots. By better understanding how your plants are coming back each season, you’re less likely to risk chopping off a vital part of their new growth for the season to come.
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