As the beginning of a new year unfolds, it is a great time to reflect on last year and make plans for the New Year. There is plenty to do in the garden to get ready and cleaned up for Spring, but first, spending some time reflecting and planning is very important and quite satisfying, and it may save you time in the long run. 

My favourite way to start is to bundle up, grab a notebook and your favourite warm drink, and wander through your yard. Try to look at your garden with fresh eyes. You might need to walk down the street and then approach your yard to see it - fresh. If you have a lot to do, don't overwhelm yourself. Choose one part of your garden to start with that is the most important to you. 

Most gardeners know which areas need some work, but here are some areas you might think about: -

• Front Entrance - The purpose of this area is to welcome your family and friends to your home.
• Trees – add definition to your garden and can provide shade and attract birdlife.
• Hedges – provide privacy and define your space/spaces.
• Borders & Flower Gardens - Frame your outdoor space and/or create interest and shape in your yard.
• Hanging Baskets and Containers - These are generally the final touches, but they may play a more significant role in small gardens.
• Veggie Garden - Growing your food is fun and more important than ever!
• Seating area - A place for solitude and relaxation
• Outdoor dining space – a place to gather with family, friends & food
• Lawns - A place to play and walk barefoot.

Look at everything and reflect on how it looked in season and the possibilities for this year. 

For example, you might look at your outdoor dining space. We are spending more time outdoors, and having a beautiful space for breakfast or dinner will be top of mind for many this summer.  

Other things to consider…

• How is the condition of the pathways, structures, and hardscaping?
• Do the shrubs need trimming? If so, note the correct time of year for pruning specific plants. Be careful: Some shrubs, like Rhododendrons and Lilacs, have already set their buds, and you will be trimming all the flowers away if you prune these in winter or early Spring.
• How does the soil look? Could it use amending or re-mulching? Even though you may not do these until later in the spring, make a note to yourself now that you want to add manure, compost, or mulch. Pay special attention to the areas you noticed were dry during the hot weather last summer. It's easy to forget just how quickly areas dried out last year while we are in the rainy season. Adding more organic matter such as, manure, peat moss, coco coir, compost and/or soaker hoses will help you to be more successful in these areas.
• Remember to feed your garden with an all-purpose fertilizer, such as our Organic Mix from our bulk bins or Evergro Flower & Veggie 10-15-19. Apply in early March.
• Are there changes that need to be made, or does it simply need to be maintained? If you are on a tight budget, maintenance is your friend; everything looks better when it looks loved.

Now, you can prepare a loose plan for your priorities for 2025. Recognize that you might have to put some areas on the back burner for the following year. This way, while you are working in your yard, you will have a clear picture of the big picture and what you are working toward this season.

2025 will be a fantastic year for you in your garden!

Shauna Lambeth ©

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