With winter temperatures coming to an end, it's the ideal time to make plans for your spring landscaping. Our real estate agents know that spring offers a valuable opportunity to get your yard and gardens looking their best. Check out a few tips to rejuvenate your home's landscaping. 

1. Test Your Soil
   Have your soil tested every few years so that you know if it's lacking any nutrients and if the pH is an acceptable level. A soil test lets you know exactly what your soil needs to provide the best environment for your lawn and garden. 
   
   
2. Develop a Plan for Fertilizing Your Landscaping Space
   Now that you know what your soil is lacking, you can make a plan for fertilizing your grass, shrubs, trees, and gardens. Some cool-season varieties of grass thrive with fertilization during the fall months, so confirm that spring fertilization is suitable for your specific type of grass. If you determine that elements of your landscaping need fertilizing, consider using a slow-release fertilizer. This will prevent fertilizer loss due to high nutrient levels and help your soil use as many nutrients as possible. 

3. Decide If You Need to Utilize Weed Control
   If you struggle to contain weeds, a weed control product is an effective way to get them under control. However, if you plan on seeding your lawn, you'll want to avoid applying a weed control product for at least 3 months after you seed it. Otherwise, the weed control product will also prevent your grass from sprouting. 
   
   
4. Remove Old Debris from Your Lawn and Flower Beds
   Spring is an ideal time to remove any remaining leaves from your yard, pick up sticks and branches, and gather any other yard or garden debris. Even if you don't plan on adding new items to your garden, getting rid of this "clutter" will improve its appearance. 
   
   
5. Apply Fresh Mulch Around Your Trees and Flower Beds
   You'll want to add a new layer of mulch around your trees and in your flower beds. Plan on adding an inch of mulch, but make sure that your mulch isn't more than a few inches thick. When mulch decomposes, it provides your soil with organic matter, decreasing the amount of fertilizer you need to use. It also helps your soil retain moisture so you have to water your plants less. A new layer of mulch instantly refreshes your landscaping so that your home's exterior looks neat and well-maintained. 

6. Examine Your Landscaping Tools and Irrigation System
   You don't want to go through the time and expense of seeding your lawn, only to discover that your irrigation system isn't working properly. Take a few minutes now to confirm that your water hoses, watering attachments, hose connections, sprinklers, and any other landscaping equipment are in proper working condition. 
   
   
7. Prepare for Potential Pests
   If you typically struggle with a pest invasion, it's a fantastic time to explore pest control methods. A physical barrier works well for deterring some pests, while others will stay away from your yard if you add certain plants to your landscaping. Depending on the severity of the problem, you may need to invest in a pest control product or pest control service

Want a home with more space for gardening? Our team has the experience you need to find your next home in the Albany or Corvallis area. Contact us to start your search!