As days get longer and temperatures begin to rise, it’s time for homeowners across Rockland and Bergen counties, as well as the Hudson Valley region, to start preparing their gardens for the spring season. Taking care of basic early-season tasks can help set the stage for a healthy and productive garden in the months ahead. Local garden center, Down to Earth Living in Pomona, shares these tips to help get started.
Check Tools and Supplies
Start by going through your gardening tools, including shovels, rakes, spades, and hoes. Tighten any loose handles, sharpen blades, and remove rust as needed.
It’s also a good idea to clean last year’s pots to help prevent disease. Make sure you have basic supplies on hand, such as fertilizer and plant supports, so you’re ready for the season ahead.
Clean Up and Prune Early
Spring cleanup outdoors is just as important as it is inside. Remove weeds and clear away leftover debris to get planting areas ready.
Divide fast-growing perennials such as daylilies, Shasta daisies, and hostas to prevent overcrowding and encourage healthy growth. The divided plants can be replanted in your yard or shared with others.
This is also a good time to prune trees and shrubs before new growth begins. Trim back dead or damaged branches and shape plants while they are still dormant. Plants that benefit from early pruning include butterfly bush, honeysuckle, hydrangea, spirea, crepe myrtle, roses, and wisteria.
Start Seeds and Care for Seedlings
If you’ve started cool-season crops such as lettuce, broccoli, or potatoes indoors, keep the soil evenly moist without overwatering. Once seedlings emerge, place them near a sunny window so they get enough light. Before moving plants outside, wait until daytime temperatures stay above 50°F for at least a week.
When seedlings develop one or two sets of leaves, begin feeding them with a half-strength organic fertilizer. To promote stronger growth, keep only one seedling per pot by selecting the healthiest plant and trimming the others at soil level.
Early Planting and Spring Care
For early outdoor planting, pansies are a good option since they can handle cooler temperatures and work well in containers or along garden edges. Azaleas and rhododendrons can also be planted in groups to add seasonal color. Mixing different plants and colors can help create a more balanced look in your outdoor space.
Hydrangeas benefit from fertilizing in early spring as buds begin to form. Use a slow-release, balanced, or acid-loving fertilizer to support root health and encourage strong growth. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, which can lead to more leaves and fewer blooms. Water thoroughly after applying fertilizer to help nutrients absorb properly and protect the roots.
Expert Advice for the Season
“Spring is the perfect time to reconnect with your garden and set the stage for a beautiful season ahead,” says Stuart Leventhal, owner of Down to Earth Living. “A little early effort now pays off all year long.”
About Down to Earth Living
Down to Earth Living, now in its 56th year, is a Garden Center serving Rockland, Bergen and Orange counties and the Hudson Valley, offering 12.5 acres filled with perennials, flowers, shrubs, and trees, with new plants arriving weekly. The 10,000-square-foot showroom features a selection of contemporary, classic, traditional, and transitional teak, aluminum, and all-weather dining and deep-seated furniture. Located at 1040 Route 45 in Pomona, N.Y., For more information, call 845-354-8500 or visit www.dteliving.com.
Down to Earth’s expanded indoor plant showroom is now open for the spring season. They are currently offering free repotting when you purchase a plant and or a pot at the store.
