As the mild winter fades and spring arrives in Gilbert, it’s the perfect time to give your yard some TLC. A thorough spring cleanup sets the stage for a lush, healthy landscape in the months ahead. In this guide, we’ll walk through a comprehensive checklist to help you revive your lawn, spruce up garden beds, and get your outdoor space ready for the growing season.
Assess Winter Damage and Clear Debris
The first step in any spring yard cleanup is to survey the state of your lawn and garden after the winter months. While Gilbert winters are generally mild, occasional cold snaps and winter rains can still take a toll. Look for areas of dead grass, broken branches, and accumulated leaves or debris. Use a rake or leaf blower to clear away the mess, giving your yard a fresh slate.
Pay special attention to your lawn. If you spot patches of dead or matted grass, use a rake to gently lift and loosen the blades, allowing air and light to reach the soil. This will encourage new growth and help prevent fungal diseases. Collect and dispose of any leaves, twigs, or other debris that have gathered over the winter.
Prune Trees and Shrubs
Spring is the ideal time to prune many trees and shrubs, before they begin their active growth phase. Start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, cutting back to healthy wood. Then, shape the plant by selectively removing overgrown or crossing branches. This will promote healthy growth and improve the overall appearance of your landscape.
When pruning desert-adapted plants like mesquite, palo verde, or desert willow, be mindful of their natural growth habits. These trees often have multiple trunks and an open, airy canopy. Aim to maintain their characteristic shape while removing any dead or rubbing branches. For flowering shrubs like bougainvillea or sage, wait until after their spring bloom to prune.
Revitalize Garden Beds
Next, turn your attention to garden beds and planting areas. Clear out any dead annuals, spent perennials, or weeds that have sprouted up. Loosen the soil with a cultivator or garden fork, taking care not to disturb the roots of established plants. If needed, amend the soil with compost or a slow-release fertilizer to replenish nutrients.
Spring is a great time to add new plants to your Gilbert garden. Consider drought-tolerant, desert-adapted varieties that will thrive in our hot, dry climate. Some excellent options include:
- Penstemons – These colorful perennials come in shades of pink, purple, and red, and attract hummingbirds.
- Blackfoot daisy – A low-maintenance groundcover with cheery white flowers most of the year.
- Desert marigold – Bright yellow blooms add a pop of color to the spring and fall garden.
- Red yucca – Striking spikes of coral flowers rise above tough, strappy foliage.
Check Irrigation Systems
Before the heat of summer arrives, give your irrigation system a thorough checkup. Turn on each zone manually and look for signs of leaks, broken sprinkler heads, or poor coverage. Make any necessary repairs or adjustments to ensure your lawn and garden will receive the water they need to thrive.
If you don’t already have one, consider installing a smart irrigation controller. These devices automatically adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions and can help you save water and money. Many models can be controlled from your smartphone, making it easy to manage your irrigation system remotely.
Refresh Outdoor Living Spaces
Finally, don’t forget about your outdoor living areas. Spring is the perfect time to freshen up patios, decks, and seating areas for the warmer months ahead. Sweep or pressure wash surfaces to remove dirt and grime. If needed, apply a fresh coat of stain or sealant to protect wood surfaces.
Clean outdoor furniture and cushions, replacing any worn or damaged pieces. Add a pop of color with new throw pillows or garden flags. Lastly, create a welcoming ambiance with string lights, lanterns, or citronella candles for those pleasant Gilbert evenings outdoors.
By following this comprehensive spring yard cleanup checklist, you’ll be well on your way to a stunning, healthy landscape that will be the envy of your Gilbert neighborhood. Embrace the refreshing spirit of the season and enjoy the beauty of your outdoor spaces all year long!
