Spring has sprung in Gilbert, and that means it’s time to wake up your garden from its winter slumber. Getting your yard prepped now sets the stage for a lush, healthy landscape in the months ahead. The good news is, you can tackle spring cleanup in a series of fun weekend projects. Grab your gloves and let’s dive in!
Prune with Purpose
Pruning is one of the most impactful things you can do for your garden’s health and appearance. Start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches from trees and shrubs. This opens up the canopy for better air circulation and sunlight penetration.
Next, shape up overgrown plants to maintain their size and encourage fuller growth. Keep in mind the natural form of each species—you want to enhance their shape, not fight it. Prune flowering shrubs like bougainvillea and sage after they bloom to avoid cutting off this year’s flower buds.
Finish by raking up all the trimmings and adding them to your compost pile or yard waste bin. Pruning debris makes a great carbon-rich addition to compost. You’ll be amazed at how fresh and tidy everything looks after a solid pruning session.
Marvelous Mulch
Mulch is a multi-tasking garden superhero. It suppresses weeds, retains moisture, moderates soil temperature, and gives your beds a polished look. Spring is the perfect time to top up mulch layers that have thinned over winter.
For most Gilbert gardens, a 3-4 inch layer of organic mulch like shredded bark or wood chips works beautifully. Keep mulch a couple inches away from tree trunks and plant stems to prevent rot and pest issues. As it breaks down, the mulch will feed your soil with nutrients and beneficial microbes.
Pro tip: Check with local tree trimmers for free wood chips. Many are happy to drop off a load and save the dumping fee. You get quality mulch at no cost while keeping green waste out of the landfill. Win-win!
Weed Patrol
Spring weeds can quickly overrun garden beds, stealing water and nutrients from your plants. The sooner you evict them, the easier your summer maintenance will be. After a rain or deep watering is the ideal time to weed, as the soft soil makes roots easier to pull.
For annual weeds, a hoe or cultivator is your best friend. Regularly scraping the soil surface will cut off weed seedlings before they take hold. Stubborn perennial weeds like dandelion or nutsedge may need to be dug out with a fork or dandelion tool.
Be sure to dispose of weeds that have gone to seed in the trash, not the compost. And remember, a thick mulch layer is your first line of defense against weed invasions. An ounce of prevention and all that!
Plant for Pollinators
Spring is prime planting time in Gilbert. The mild weather gives new additions time to settle in before summer’s intense heat. Consider adding plants that support pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Penstemons, salvias, and desert marigold are all great options that bloom heavily while handling the heat with minimal fuss. Hummingbirds adore desert honeysuckle and chuparosa. Bonus: many pollinator plants are also drought-tolerant, so they’re a smart choice for our desert conditions.
By inviting pollinators to your garden, you’re not only supporting these vital creatures but ensuring better harvests from your fruiting plants. Talk about a delicious return on investment!
Inspect and Connect
While you’re out working, give your irrigation system a checkup. Run each zone and look for leaks, clogs, or misaligned emitters. Fixing issues now prevents water waste and ensures your plants get the hydration they need as the weather warms.
Finally, take time to simply enjoy your garden. Spring in the desert is a magical time, with wildflowers, cactus blooms, and perfect patio weather. Pour a cold drink, kick back, and admire the fruits of your weekend labor. You’ve earned it!
With a little spring cleaning and planting, your Gilbert garden will be set to thrive all season long. By working with nature and staying on top of routine tasks, you cultivate a yard that’s as rewarding as it is beautiful. Happy spring, everyone!
