The days are getting longer, the sun is making more frequent appearances, and nature is awakening from its winter sleep. Do you want to enjoy a blooming garden and a perfectly maintained terrace soon? Now is the time to get started! With these handy tips from Ifac Service, you can give your garden a fresh start and get it ready for the new season. A well-kept garden not only enhances your living comfort but also adds to the appeal and value of your home.
After winter, your garden may look a little messy. Dead leaves, fallen branches, and moss accumulate, which can hinder the growth of new plants. Start with a thorough clean-up: rake up all the leaves and remove dead plants and weeds from the borders. Don’t forget to clean your terrace, garden furniture, and pathways.
Use a pressure washer to efficiently remove green deposits and dirt, but be sure to use the right pressure setting to avoid damaging stones or wood. Wooden garden furniture can be cleaned with lukewarm water and mild soap, while plastic furniture responds well to a mixture of water and vinegar. A clean garden and terrace create a fresh foundation for the new growing season.
Early spring is the ideal time to prune trees, shrubs, and hedges. Pruning at the right time stimulates growth and flowering, keeping your plants beautiful and healthy. Start by removing dead or diseased branches to allow healthy parts to get more light and air.
However, not all plants should be pruned at the same time:
Roses: Best pruned after the last frost to encourage strong new shoots.
Lavender: Prune in March or April before new shoots appear.
Beech and yew hedges: Trim in May when they start to sprout.
Fruit trees: Prune before the buds begin to swell.
Always use sharp and clean pruning tools to prevent damage and reduce the risk of disease. Proper pruning ensures fuller and healthier growth.
After winter, plants need new nutrients to thrive. The soil is often depleted due to months of wet and cold weather, so replenishing it is essential.
Choose an organic fertilizer that provides slow-release nutrients and stimulates soil life. Compost, cow manure pellets, or specialized fertilizers for flowers and grass are excellent choices. For lawns, a nitrogen-rich fertilizer promotes strong growth and deeper green color, while flowering plants need more potassium for abundant blooms.
Tip: Apply fertilizer just before a rain shower so that nutrients absorb into the soil. If it stays dry, water the soil to help the fertilizer penetrate.
A lush green lawn is the showcase of your garden. After winter, however, the grass may look thin and pale. To restore its full and vibrant look, follow these steps:
Mow the lawn when it reaches about 8–10 cm in height. Avoid cutting it too short at first, as this weakens the grass.
Scarify to remove moss and dead grass, allowing air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots.
Reseed bare patches with grass seed and water regularly to aid germination.
With proper lawn care, your grass will look beautiful again within weeks.
Spring is the season of new life – and that applies to your garden too! Now is the perfect time to plant new flowers and bulbs for a colorful garden later in the season.
Consider:
Tulips, daffodils, and crocuses for an early splash of color.
Lavender and sage for delightful scents and pollinator-friendly flowers.
Hydrangeas and roses for a romantic touch.
Mix different heights and colors to add depth and variety to your garden. A diverse selection of plants ensures blooming beauty throughout the season.
Now that your garden is fresh and green again, bring out your garden furniture! Treat wooden furniture with a layer of oil or stain to protect it from moisture and sunlight. Plastic and metal furniture can be easily cleaned with soap and water. Add new cushions or a table runner for a refreshed look. Also, consider atmospheric lighting, such as lanterns or string lights, to create a cozy ambiance for long spring evenings. Well-maintained furniture ensures you can enjoy your outdoor space for years to come.
As temperatures rise, plants and lawns need more water. Water them regularly but avoid overly soggy soil. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Ventilation is also crucial. By spacing trees and shrubs correctly, you improve air circulation, reducing the risk of mold and diseases. Adding mulch around plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
A well-maintained garden not only enhances your comfort but also increases your home’s value. Buyers appreciate a well-kept outdoor space, making a beautiful garden a strong selling point. Thinking about selling or renting your home soon? A neat garden might just give you that extra edge for a successful sale.
Our experts are here to help with professional property valuation and advice on presenting your home and garden to potential buyers.
Contact us to learn how we can assist with the sale, rental, or purchase of your property – including that beautiful garden view!