Northwest Blooms · Printable checklist
Spring Garden Tasks Checklist
55 tasks across 9 sections · northwestblooms.com
Inspection & Clean Up
- Remove fallen branches, leaves, and debris to open space for new shoots
- Inspect trees, shrubs, and hardscape features for winter damage
- Clean birdbaths, water features, pots, and containers
- Rake leaf litter, keeping small wildlife-friendly patches
- Check fences, edging, and raised beds for stability
- Assess drainage and correct areas holding excess moisture
- Look for early signs of disease, dieback, or frost injury
Soil Prep & Fertility Boost
- Test soil pH and nutrient levels and amend based on results
- Add compost or aged manure to improve soil structure and beneficial activity
- Refresh mulch once soil warms, promoting moisture retention and weed suppression
- Lightly loosen compacted areas without deep tilling
- Check drainage around beds to prevent early-season root stress
- Apply a balanced organic fertilizer or slow-release soil amendment to support steady early-season root and shoot growth
Division, Planting & Transplanting
- Divide perennials that are overcrowded or flowering poorly
- Plant new shrubs, trees, perennials, and bare-root roses
- Direct-sow cool-season vegetables and hardy annuals
- Harden off indoor-grown seedlings before planting outside
- Move plants that struggled with light or spacing last season
- Fill gaps in borders with early perennials or spring annuals
- Replant divisions promptly to reduce stress and encourage rooting
Pruning & Trimming
- Prune dead or damaged limbs to prevent disease and encourage strong new growth around healthy wood
- Shape non-spring-blooming shrubs to open crowded interiors and support balanced, attractive structure
- Cut back old perennial stems to clear room for developing shoots and improve airflow
- Trim winter-burned evergreen foliage to refresh appearance and stimulate healthy regrowth
- Delay pruning spring-flowering shrubs to preserve buds formed during the previous season
Weed & Pest Prevention
- Pull early weeds while soil is moist to remove deep roots and prevent reseeding
- Apply pre-emergent weed controls where appropriate, avoiding areas that will be seeded
- Inspect soil surfaces, plant crowns, and mulch layers for overwintering pests or eggs
- Monitor seedlings and tender new shoots for slug or snail activity as temperatures rise
- Clean and sterilize containers, stakes, and tools to reduce disease spread before planting
- Remove decaying plant debris that may shelter insects or fungal spores
Lawn & Turf Care
- Rake up leaves, twigs, and winter thatch to open the lawn surface and improve airflow
- Sharpen mower blades and service equipment to ensure clean cuts and healthy lawn growth
- Overseed thinning patches once soil warms, pairing with light topdressing for seed-to-soil contact
- Apply compost or a balanced fertilizer to stimulate root development and early greening
- Repair uneven or compacted areas by loosening soil and reseeding where necessary
- Aerate if needed to relieve compaction and enhance water penetration
Irrigation & Hardware Check
- Inspect drip lines, hoses, and emitters for leaks or blockages, replacing damaged sections as needed
- Flush irrigation systems thoroughly and adjust flow rates for young or newly planted material
- Repair trellises, raised beds, edging, or fencing to ensure structural stability before growth increases
- Clean cold frames, cloches, and protective covers to maximize spring light penetration
- Confirm timers, valves, and connectors are functioning properly after winter shutdown
- Test sprinkler zones or drip circuits to ensure consistent coverage
Wildlife & Pollinator Support
- Refresh birdbaths and feeders as wildlife becomes active
- Delay heavy cleanup in certain areas to protect emerging insects
- Plant early-blooming perennials and shrubs to supply nectar
- Leave small brush piles or select stems for shelter
- Add shallow water dishes with stones for pollinator access
- Reduce or avoid pesticide use to protect beneficial insects
Planning, Design & Organization
- Review last year’s successes, challenges, and planting notes to better understand what needs improving going into the new season
- Sketch updated planting layouts or redesigned beds to refine structure, plant flow, and seasonal interest
- Inventory seeds, tools, fertilizers, and soil amendments, noting what should be replenished
- Create a planting and maintenance schedule to stay organized during the busiest months
- Organize potting supplies and clean storage areas for efficient workflow
- Update or label garden maps to track plantings and future changes