Spring is Coming

It has been a particularly harsh winter this year, but spring is around the corner. Here at Ecotone Home we are getting ready for that sweet spot in the calendar when the snow has melted and the ground begins to thaw but we’ve not yet hit the jungle like proportions of the spring bloom. Now is the time to get out there - assess winter storm damage, check your drainage, clear debris and prepare your property for the grandeur that is spring.

Here are a few tips for the winter to spring transition:

• Winter leaves a mess, downed branches, soft ground and washed-out paths. Start with a full walk-through so you know what needs clearing, repairing, or reinforcing before the season ramps up.
• The spring thaw exposes where water pools and soil stays soft. Address low spots, improve runoff paths, and shore up areas that get torn up once equipment or foot traffic picks up.
• Fallen limbs, leftover snow piles, and winter runoff can block drainage and damage equipment later. Clear brush, cut back problem areas, and open up ditches while the ground is still workable.
• Tools and equipment - don’t wait until you need them. Sharpen blades, change fluids, check tires, and make sure everything starts and runs the way it should. Spring work moves fast, and downtime costs you time and effort.
• And finally, prepare to plant now. As the ground begins to thaw, amend your soil for proper drainage and prepare additional compost for managing late frosts. Start building or repairing your raised beds and plan a strategy to protect young plants from local wildlife.

We’ll be back with more tips on gardening and a special birding feature as we roll into spring, but for now get out there and get muddy. You’ll be glad you did. See you in the ecotone.