As the cold, Ohio winter finally starts to loosen its grip, many of us are eager to dive into our spring landscape cleanup. The sun is shining, temperatures are rising, and it’s hard to resist the urge to get outside and start tidying up. But the big question stands: Is March too soon to begin?
The answer depends on what tasks you’re tackling and how your landscape has fared over the winter months. Let’s break down the good and the bad of starting your landscape cleanup too early.
The Good | The Bad |
1. Raking Up Debris If you haven’t already, this is a great time to clear away fallen leaves, twigs, and any other debris that may have accumulated over the winter. Doing this early can help prevent mold, mildew, and unwanted pests from taking hold as the warmer months arrive. Just be mindful not to disrupt any emerging plants or new growth. | 1. Too Much Cleaning Too Soon While it’s tempting to jump right into your spring cleanup, it’s important not to be too aggressive too early. Ohio winters can be unpredictable, and premature cleaning can disturb the ecosystem in your landscape. Many plants, insects, and beneficial critters rely on fallen leaves and other organic matter for shelter and warmth throughout the winter. If you clean up everything too early, you risk disrupting these natural habitats. |
2. Pruning Dead Growth Cutting back any dead or damaged branches is important for the health of your plants. If you see any shrubs or trees that have broken limbs from heavy snow or ice, go ahead and remove them. However, be careful with pruning plants like roses or perennials that are just beginning to bud – it’s best to wait until you’re sure they’re fully ready for the season. | 2. Waiting on Frost-Sensitive Plants Some plants, especially perennials and certain shrubs, are still vulnerable to late frosts in March. Removing mulch or cutting back dead growth too early can expose them to potential damage when the temperature drops again. It’s usually best to wait until the danger of a freeze has passed before making major changes to your garden. |
3. Preparing the Soil Now is a great time to start preparing your soil for planting. You can gently turn the soil and add compost or organic matter to improve its structure. Just be sure the soil isn’t too wet or frozen before working it – you don’t want to damage the soil or compact it. | 3. Soil Compaction March can still be quite soggy in Ohio and working the soil when it’s too wet can lead to compaction, making it harder for roots to penetrate and water to drain. If you’re eager to get started, make sure the ground is dry enough to avoid this problem. |
So, What Should You Do?
Patience is key. If you’re itching to get out there and start tidying up, it’s best to focus on the small tasks – like cleaning up debris, checking for winter damage, and evaluating your plants’ needs. But be sure to wait for the right time to do the heavier tasks like pruning or dividing plants and keep an eye on the weather to avoid frost damage.
At M.J. Design, we always recommend taking your time and watching for the right signs of spring before diving in. A thoughtful, gradual approach to your landscape cleanup will ensure your plants and garden get the best start for the growing season.
We'd be happy to help answer any questions you may have about timing. Call us at 614-873-7333. Happy gardening, and we look forward to helping you prepare for a beautiful, healthy spring landscape!