By Megan Montemarano
Boosting your home’s landscaping means boosting your home’s value, not to mention its show-stopping curb appeal. Whether recently purchased, on the market or a longtime place of residency, a house is not complete without a little front and backyard “TLC.” As the warmer weather rapidly approaches, give your property the seasonal refresh it deserves. Follow these basic steps to help prepare for a beautiful spring garden.
Start with a site analysis. As with any project, it’s important to assess the area with which you are working to determine the most logical, effective approach. HGTV says to note all the key elements on site such as existing structures, plants, views, water issues or anything else that may affect design. Get a “lay of the land,” as they say, by surveying the plot’s topography and boundaries. HGTV also notes the importance of perspective. “Walk through your home and look out the windows with the most important views—from the kitchen sink, the family room, the bedrooms. How can the view be enhanced or improved? What’s blocking the view?” It’s also essential to understand the land’s sun exposure. Zillow advises individuals to establish which areas are in the direct sunlight or partial shade, and then choose plants that will thrive in that specific environment.
Prepare with a winter cleanup. A long cold winter can wreak havoc on your yard. Although it’s probably the least popular part of spring landscaping, cleaning up your 
yard is critical. It sets the scene for a successful spring refresh, providing a spotless canvas for nature to thrive as the sun gets warmer, and the days longer. Chris Lambton, a professional landscaper and host of DIY Network’s Yard Crashers, tells Real Simple to first start with the basics—clearing garden beds and lawns of broken branches, leaves and other debris. “It’s important to start these chores quickly, as your spring bulbs and plants should be popping out of the ground any day now.” The Huffington Post also suggests sharpening any garden tools early, as they will be needed for trimming, shaping and pruning trees, bushes and perennial plants.
Give your soil some attention. It’s time to add some life to your soil, which is most likely dried out from the cold winter months. Real Simple says to start by turning the soil or raking it out, followed by the addition of organic materials such as compost or manure. This provides moisture and nutrients necessary for healthy growth. It’s important to note, however, that compost should be added a few weeks prior to planting so it can properly mix with the soil, and not damage the roots of new plants. Zillow also suggests performing a soil test with a local agricultural pro, which will reveal the best plants for growth, as well as how to improve conditions. Once this is all set, don’t forget to add layers of mulch in the late spring for the prevention of future weed growth.
Remember all four seasons. When purchasing your plants, be sure to think of all four seasons. “It’s tempting to do all your plant shopping in spring, but those pretty blooms will soon fade away,” comments Zillow. “To avoid 11 months of boredom, choose a variety of plants that offer interest at different times of the year.” In addition to planting a few colorful annuals, strategically choose perennial plants that bloom all summer and into fall. HGTV shares a few top picks here.
Maintain your hard work. Last but not least, don’t forget to maintain all your hard work throughout the entire season. Landscaping is an ongoing project that requires genuine love, dedication and care. Take advantage of all Mother Nature has to offer. As the Chinese Proverb goes, “Life begins the day you start a garden.”
