The official start of spring isn’t until march 21st, but before you get excited about rows of daffodils and relaxing birdsong let’s not forget that the lack of gardening work done over the cold winter months means there are still plenty of outdoor chores to be done. It’s time to brave the pre-spring chill, switch the radio on, and start to exercise your green fingers in preparation for Springtime.
Just before Spring is the best time to take action against the young weed seedlings that are starting to appear from the soil. Pro-active weeding is quicker with damp soil as it becomes easier to pull the little devils out. While you’re at it you may as well remove any dead annuals and winter debris which haven’t been composted over winter. Just remember to avoid composting weeds as they will most definitely come back to haunt you.
Garden birds are getting ready for Spring too. Even if you think it’s still too cold the fact is some birds have already or will very soon lay their eggs. Now is the time for wildlife gardeners to make sure that their bird houses are ready for habitation. Bird boxes are usually constructed to allow for either the roof or base to be removed so last year's nest can be cleaned out. Carefully remove this debris, wipe the box out with a mild bleach solution and patch up any holes or cracks with off-cuts of wood.
Finally, any maintenance work on garden structures such as sheds and fences is best addressed before the Spring as its all too easy to let these tasks slide later in the year when you’re obsessing over flower beds. Re-painting fencing, trellis or lattice work is admittedly a boring and time consuming job but again is best done while there aren’t as many other jobs to be getting on with. Take the time to check for and repair any holes and loose boards on your fencing, and inspect any decking for nails that may have worked their way up.
It is also the time to sharpen or replace the blade on your lawnmower, and check oil levels on any machinery you have. Finally, check that your garden hoses and other equipment is still in good condition, as if you find there’s a problem you may still be able to pick up a bargain replacement in the sales.
Written by Francesca Caruana-Grima