Spring into Summer: Your Essential Garden Prep

Spring and summer bring longer days, warmer soil and a burst of life in the garden – here's how to get your space ready

- BY JADE MCGEE

With winter behind us and the first signs of spring appearing, it's time to shift focus to garden preparation.

Warmer weather means more time outdoors and more opportunity to plant, prune, feed and tidy. Whether your garden is a sprawling plot or a compact courtyard, a bit of planning now will help it thrive through to the height of summer. Getting your garden in shape doesn't have to be overwhelming. By tackling key jobs step by step, you'll lay the groundwork for a lush, colourful and productive season. Here's what to prioritise as you welcome the sunnier months

1. Clear out winter debris

Before you plant anything new, start by clearing the clutter. Winter leaves, broken branches and dead annuals should all be removed to make space for new growth. Pay attention to flower beds, veggie patches and the spaces beneath shrubs - any organic material that's become soggy or slimy can harbour pests or disease.

Prune back dead stems from perennials and trim back ornamental grasses to allow fresh shoots to emerge. If you have tender plants in pots that were sheltered for winter, start acclimatising them to the outdoors again by placing them in a sunny, protected spot during the day.

2. IMPROVE YOUR SOIL

After the long winter months, soil can become compacted and depleted. Turn over your beds and dig in a generous amount of compost or well-rotted manure. This boosts structure and adds nutrients essential for plant growth. For heavy clay soils, work in some coarse sand or bark to improve drainage.