As the days grow longer and the air starts to warm, Southern Utah gardeners are eagerly awaiting the arrival of spring. But before you can start planting, there are some important steps to take to ensure your garden is primed for a bountiful season. What this really means is taking the time now to lay the groundwork for a thriving, productive garden in the months ahead.
Get Your Soil Ready
One of the most crucial pre-spring tasks is to evaluate and amend your soil. Utah State University Extension experts recommend taking soil samples to determine the nutrient levels and pH balance. This will help you identify any deficiencies that need to be addressed with targeted fertilizers or organic matter.
"Healthy, nutrient-rich soil is the foundation for a successful garden," says JayDee Gunnell, USU Extension horticulturist. "Taking the time to get your soil in optimal condition now will pay dividends later on when your plants are thriving."
Prep Planting Beds
In addition to soil testing, the bigger picture here is ensuring your garden beds are ready for planting. Avoid compacted soil by steering clear of tilling when the ground is wet or saturated. Instead, focus on incorporating organic matter like compost to improve drainage and nutrient content.
"Good soil preparation is key," Gunnell notes. "Taking these steps now will give your plants the best possible start come spring planting time."
Tackle Pruning and Cleanup
As you're preparing the soil, don't forget about your existing plants and trees. Now is the ideal time to prune fruit trees, berries, and spring-blooming shrubs before new growth emerges. This helps encourage healthy, productive plants.
Gunnell also recommends cleaning up any fallen branches or debris, as well as removing any remaining mulch or protective coverings from trees and shrubs. "Getting your garden space cleaned up and ready for spring planting is an important step," he says.
Plan Ahead for Planting
While there's still a chill in the air, it's never too early to start planning your spring planting. USU Extension experts suggest getting cool-season vegetable seeds like peas, lettuce, and radishes into the ground as soon as the soil is workable.
"One of the best tips is to plant peas in the garden every 2-3 weeks until early May," Gunnell advises. "This will give you a longer, more extended harvest." He also recommends exploring the USU Tree Browser to select the right trees and shrubs for your Southern Utah landscape.
The bottom line is that a little pre-spring preparation now can make a big difference in the health and productivity of your garden later on. By taking the time to get your soil, beds, and plants ready, you'll be setting yourself up for a bountiful and beautiful growing season ahead.