Spring has officially sprung in Georgetown and Lexington, Kentucky! The days are longer, the air is warmer, and your yard is practically begging for a makeover. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just someone looking to spruce up your outdoor space, this guide will have you ready to tackle the season with gusto. Let’s dig in—literally.
1. Inspect Your Kingdom (a.k.a. Your Yard)
Before you start planting or pruning, take a stroll around your yard. Look for winter damage on plants, fences, and hardscaping like patios or pathways. If you spot any animal burrows or chewed-up shrubs courtesy of local wildlife, make a note. This is your chance to assess what needs fixing before the real work begins.
2. Hardscaping: Fix It Before It’s Too Late
Hardscaping repairs are best tackled early in the season, while plants are still dormant. Got wobbly stepping stones or a fence that’s seen better days? Now’s the time to fix them. If you’re feeling ambitious, consider adding raised garden beds or freshening up wooden elements with a coat of stain or paint. Need supplies? Check out local spots like Redmond’s Garden Center in Lexington—they’ve got everything from pavers to patio décor.
3. Spring Cleaning: Not Just for Closets
Your garden beds need some TLC after winter. Clear out dead leaves, fallen branches, and last year’s plant debris to make room for new growth. Don’t forget to clean out ponds, birdbaths, and containers too—a quick scrub with a water-bleach solution will do the trick. If you’re short on time (or patience), grab tools like leaf blowers or pruning shears from Parker’s Garden Center in Georgetown.
4. Soil: The Unsung Hero
Healthy soil is the foundation of every thriving garden. Test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels—kits are available at places like Glynn Young’s Nursery in Nicholasville—and amend it as needed with compost or organic fertilizers. Pro tip: Topdress your beds with an inch of compost before planting to give your plants a head start.
5. Prune Like a Pro
Grab those pruners and get to work! Trim dead or damaged branches from trees and shrubs, but be mindful of what blooms when. For example, avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs like lilacs now—you’ll risk losing this year’s blooms. Instead, focus on summer bloomers like roses or hydrangeas that flower on new growth.
6. Divide and Conquer (Your Perennials)
If your perennials are outgrowing their space, early spring is the perfect time to divide them. This not only keeps your plants healthy but also gives you free greenery to fill other parts of your yard—or share with friends! Need advice? Head over to Bi-Water Farm & Greenhouse in Georgetown; their experts can guide you through the process.
7. Mulch It Up
Mulching is like giving your garden a cozy blanket—it retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature. Spread a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around flower beds and trees for best results. For high-quality mulch options, swing by Pemberton’s Greenhouses in Lexington.
8. Planters and Containers: Instant Curb Appeal
Not ready for full-on landscaping? No problem! Add instant charm with planters filled with cool-weather flowers like pansies and violas—both thrive in Kentucky’s spring climate. Bi-Water Farm even offers workshops where you can design your own porch pots!
9. Lawn Care 101
Your lawn deserves some love, too! Start by dethatching and aerating to improve airflow and water absorption. Overseed any bare patches and apply a slow-release fertilizer for lush results. Regular mowing at the right height will keep things looking sharp all season long.
10. Pest Patrol
Spring pests can wreak havoc on your hard work if left unchecked. Use natural deterrents like neem oil or companion planting (e.g., marigolds near vegetables) to keep bugs at bay without resorting to harsh chemicals.
11. Shop Local for Plants and Supplies
Lexington and Georgetown are home to some fantastic garden centers that cater specifically to Kentucky’s climate:
- Michler’s Greenhouses (Lexington): Known for their organic growing methods and eclectic plant selection.
- Redmond’s Garden Center (Lexington): A one-stop shop for everything from perennials to hardscaping materials.
- Bi-Water Farm & Greenhouse (Georgetown): Perfect for family-friendly events like their Festival of Flowers later this month.
- Glynn Young’s Nursery (Nicholasville): Boasting over 3,000 trees and shrubs grown right here in Central Kentucky.
Supporting these local businesses not only ensures quality products but also helps keep our community thriving.
Spring in Georgetown and Lexington isn’t just about pretty flowers—it’s about creating an outdoor space that feels like home. So grab your gloves, fire up that lawnmower, and let’s make this season one for the books!
Sources: provenwinners.com, parkerbs.com
Header Image Source: Sandie Clarke on Unsplash
