Essential Gardening Tips for Early Spring

Spring has officially arrived! This season is a time of rejuvenation and reconnection with the earth. As Margaret Atwood said, “In spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt.”

Here are some essential tips to ensure your garden thrives this spring:

1. Prepare the Soil: Before planting anything, take the time to prepare your soil. Remove any weeds and debris and loosen the soil to allow for better water drainage and root growth. Consider adding organic matter such as compost to enrich the soil with nutrients.
2. Start Seeds Indoors: Get a head start on your spring garden by starting seeds indoors. This is especially beneficial for plants that require a longer growing season, such as tomatoes, peppers and eggplants. Use seed trays or pots filled with quality potting mix, and place them in a warm, sunny location.
3. Prune and Trim: Early spring is the perfect time to prune shrubs, trees and perennial plants. Remove dead or damaged branches and shape the plants to encourage healthy growth. Questions about specific pruning needs? Get gardening help from Colorado Master Gardeners. 
4. Monitor Moisture Levels: As the weather warms up, plants will require more water to thrive. Monitor soil moisture levels regularly and water deeply when necessary. Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day to minimize evaporation and use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. (And starting May 1, be sure to follow Denver Water’s guidelines.)
5. Protect Against Frost: Early spring can bring unexpected frosts. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared to cover tender plants with frost cloths or blankets overnight. 

By following these gardening tips, you'll set the stage for a successful and flourishing garden this spring. 

Want to dig deeper? Sign up for A New Gardener Boot Camp – Online. Sessions are designed to equip you with all the tools you need to master your garden once and for all.

And don’t forget: Spring Plant Sale is just around the corner! Chat with horticulture staff and shop plant divisions curated for Colorado’s semi-arid environment. The event is free, but registration is required. Member reservations open April 10 and public reservations open April 15.