The days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer, and Spring is in the air. Now is the time to prepare your yard and garden for the following growing season. Make sure to always start by assessing your yard for any winter damages.

Here are five tips for your Spring clean-up:

1. Prune any dead, damaged and/or diseased branches on trees and shrubs

• Do not prune Elm trees between April 1st and September 30th to prevent the spread of Dutch Elm Disease

2. Cut back last season’s growth on ornamental grasses and perennials. Make sure to clear all leaf litter and debris from garden and perennial beds.

3. Divide any larger fall-blooming perennials

• Dividing perennials helps to stimulate new growth and remove the dead centers
• Helps to control the size of the perennial
• As a bonus, you will have more plants in your garden.

4. Add 2 to 3 inches of mulch to perennial beds that need it to help retain moisture and suppress weeds for the season.

5. Gently loosen soil and add a layer of compost to garden beds. 

For information on dividing perennials please visit the University of Minnesota Extension website. For any additional information or help getting your garden started please contact Stefanie by email or by calling 780-352-3321 ext.2271.