Late Winter Garden Maintenance: Jump-Start Spring Growth

Late winter tasks prepare the garden for a vibrant spring. Dormancy makes it the ideal time for structural work.

Why Start Early?

Clears storm debris, amends beds, frees spring for fun tasks (seed starting, planting). Pruning now minimizes sap loss and speeds healing.

Late Winter Task List

• Pot forced bulbs.
• Start alliums (garlic, leeks).
• Plan veg garden; order seeds.
• Mulch perennial edibles.
• Remove dead/broken branches.

Later, on dry days:

• Clean lawn furniture.
• Fix/paint window boxes.
• Sharpen/oil tools.
• Plot vegetable garden.

Pruning Guidelines

• Prune most plants now (dormant). Exception: spring bloomers on old wood—prune after flowering.
• Clean, sharp tools; cut just outside branch collar at slight angle.
• Remove water sprouts, suckers, crossing branches, deadwood.
• Maintain natural habit for health.

Enjoy the fresh air and anticipation of the coming season.