Garden Chores and Prep for March and April in Southern New England

(Zones 5b, 6a, 6B and 7a)

March and the Spring Equinox and April’s drenching rain showers spark the souls of gardeners of all kinds. The warmer weather and added hours of sunlight awaken the flora and fauna that have hibernated throughout the long and challenging New England winter. The smell of spring fills us with anticipation of the plants we’ll nurture throughout the growing season to provide beauty and nourishment for our loved ones (and the local wildlife).

While it may be a little bit early and cold to begin putting our favorite warmer weather crops in the ground, there are some things we can do to get our hands back in the dirt and get ahead of the coming weeks and months.

Cold weather crops can go in the ground!!! Cold weather crops are perfect for planting in early spring and germinate in cold soil. They mature in cool weather and with short periods of daylight. Be sure to do your research and read your seed packets prior to planting. https://amzn.to/3NpCyZQ

Here are somethings you can do in March and April to get ahead of the game:

· Prune shrubs that flower on new wood.

· Trim back ornamental grass stalks to clear room for new growth.

· Start spring cleaning in flower beds After soil temps have reached 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Early season pollinators may be resting in last years stalks.

· Send a sample of your soil into your local county extension service office for testing. This will help you understand your soils health and what nutrients (if anything) need to be added to your soil to help your plants succeed.

o URI has a fantastic soil testing program that I will be using this year - Soil Testing Service (uri.edu).

· Do not walk across your garden when the soil is wet. This can lead to compacted soil that can impede root development and cause poor drainage.

· Start assessing your garden beds and finalize your plans and layouts.

· Direct Sow some of your early season crops (Peas, Spinach, Arugula, Potatoes, Beets, Carrots, Kale, etc.)

· If you haven’t already, start your warmer weather plants inside so you can harden them off well before planting in the ground. Typically, you will want to start your seeds 6-8 weeks prior to hardening off.

· Build and prepare your greenhouse.

Happy Gardening!