Although the weather has been cool, many plants are starting to grow. Pretty soon we will be enjoying colour from blooming bulbs and early flowering trees and shrubs.
Now is a great time to get your lawn in shape for the season. Get your rakes out and get rid of all the dry, dead grass. If you have some areas that are a little thin, your can top dress with 1/2" to 1" of soil and top seed. With the moisture we have been receiving it's a good time to get some fertilizer down for quick green up once the temperatures start to rise.
Our fall was cut a little short last year with the early snow fall so it is an ideal time to get the last of the cleanup done. Cut back perennials, rake out beds, start to pull mulch away from plants. With our loamy-clay soils it is time to top dress the gardens with some organic matter. Compost and manure will add some nutrients to the soils as well as keep them friable.
Trees, shrubs and perennials are all starting to show signs of life. It's time to start watering. Many evergreens have suffered due to the dry winter we have had. They may have browning tips so it is very important that they are given a thorough watering.
Your back may be thankful for the lack of shoveling this winter. Your plants will be thirsty, remember to give them a good drink!