Winter is the perfect time to reflect on last year’s garden and start planning for the season ahead. Even though the New England weather is still brisk, February is an ideal month to begin preparing for your spring garden.
During the colder months, focus on mapping out your garden beds, ordering seeds, and starting cool-season crops indoors. A little planning now will set you up for a productive and successful growing season.
- Review Last Year’s Garden: Think back to what flourished and brought the most enjoyment versus the plants that did’nt live up to your expectations. Did your crops underperform due to pests or disease? Can small adjustments be made to help these plants thrive?
- Start Seeds Indoors: Start peppers, eggplant, and early tomatoes. This step should begin 6-8 weeks before the last frost. This generally falls around early to mid-May in New England.
- Prune Dormant Plants: Late February is ideal for pruning fruit trees and deciduous shrubs. Avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs like forsythia or lilacs – this early spring growth will turn into this year’s blooms.
- Clean and Sharpen Tools: Clean tools to prevent disease, and sharpen pruners, shovels, and hoes for the spring.
Although February is associated with harsh temperatures and lingering snow, that doesn’t mean you have to wait to start planning your spring garden. Thoughtful preparation during the winter months can ensure a productive and beautiful spring garden once warmer weather arrives.
If you are seeking professional guidance or have specific questions about your garden, visit Studley’s for knowledgeable advice and support for all your gardening needs.
- Tags: garden, spring, spring bloom
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