Spring Soil Preparation Tips

Some of us want to grow the best looking plants each year, ones that will flourish and become the envy of the neighborhood. Others don’t share that dream, but if you’re one of those who does, we have some tips from the landscape professionals here at Hively to help transform your garden into something special. Follow these guidelines and your landscape will be on its way to being the best-looking property for miles around.

First, Test the Soil

The most important thing you can do for your landscape is a simple soil test. A soil test will help ensure landscape success by revealing pH and nutrient levels in your soil. With this information you can correct soil abnormalities, improving the effectiveness of fertilizers, helping the grass grow, and improving long-term resistance to pests and diseases. Spring is a great time to get your soil tested and corrected.

Add Organic Matter

Compost improves nearly all soils, and it’s impossible to add too much. Organic matter feeds the soil, helps retain moisture, and absorbs and stores nutrients for your plants. You’ll want to mix this into your existing soil up to a foot deep where possible, because the deeper you go, the better.

Mulch & Fertilize

Mulching is one of the best things you can do for your landscape. Not only does it help cut down on weeds in the early spring, but it also helps insulate your plants and improves moisture retention. If you need more info on mulching, check out our new resource PDF that details exactly how to mulch.

Organic fertilizers are an excellent way to improve your plants’ growth, flowers, and overall health. If you follow the recommendations of your soil test and add a slow-release fertilizer during soil prep, your plants will thank you for it later by putting on quite a show.

So, as you can see, soil preparation is necessary if you want to keep your landscape in optimum shape. If you’d prefer to leave it to the professionals, Hively offers several proactive maintenance plans that provides a carefree landscape, great looking plant beds, and a superior looking lawn.