Seven simple tips for keeping your landscaping and gardens lush and healthy. Enjoy!
Tip #1: 
As soon as you see the first greens of crocuses emerging,spreadfertilizer with haltz (crabgrass killer). This is available in chemical or organic form. Crabgrass is difficult to eradicate once it takes hold in your grass!
Tip #2:
When crocuses are in full bloom, cut back any ornamental grasses. Burn the leftover spikes to encourage new growth, but only on a windless day if there are other plants nearby that can catch fire.
This is also the time to spread a granulated weed blocker. I like to be careful and steer clear from dormant perennials so as not to deter them from their spring growth. This, too, is available organically.
Tip #3:
Do you see daffodils in bloom? If so, it’s time to cut back the brown from most perennials. Leave alone the hydrangeas, roses and butterfly bushes (except sedum). When all is cleared away, spread a layer of new mulch.
Tip #4: 
If you notice plenty of tulips in full bloom, and the ten day forecast is void of evening temperatures below zero, you are safe to plant some pansies. These are one of the very few annuals (plant annually) that can withstand a shallow frost.
Tip #5:
Do you notice the tulips starting to fade? Is the weather turning warmer and you’re feeling anxious to get your summer annuals in the ground? Don’t do it! A late frost could ruin a lot of work. Wait until the spring tulips have mostly lost their petals and the 10 day forecast lows don’t drop below 38. Then, have at it! Remember to check if the flower is meant for shade or sun and plan accordingly.
Tip #6:
Roses are in full bloom, day lilies are getting ready…now is a good time to apply fertilizer plus weed killer to your grass. (also available in organic, of course!)
Tip #7:
Have you seen your first Japanese Beetle? Shimmery, green little black invader. Let the wars begin! They don’t generally kill plants, but they do strip them, smell bad and seem to get stuck in hair, clothing and your pets’ fur!
For the most part, you have two options for battle. I spray. Yes, I admit it. I use the dreaded chemicals and spray everything except my butterfly garden. The organic option is to use beetle bags. You can find either at any lawn and garden or all-purpose department store.
This is the time I also spread a bag of insect killer on my lawn–one that includes grub control (infant beetles). Also, a new layer of weed blocker will need to be spread about now. Enjoy your lush yard!
