Hi friends, Alice here! I’m a chocolate lab, and when spring comes around, I know it’s time for my favorite yard inspections: sniffing the shrubs, checking out the hedges, and ensuring all is ready for a fresh season of growth. While lawns get a lot of attention this time of year, the rest of your landscape needs some spring prep, too!
At Welch Lawn Care, early spring is an important time to care for shrubs, hedges, and ornamental plantings. Proper pruning and mulching now help landscapes recover from winter and grow stronger all season long.
Early Spring Pruning: What & When
Late winter to early spring is the ideal time to prune many shrubs and hedges in New England, especially non-flowering shrubs and those that bloom on new growth. Pruning while plants are still dormant encourages healthy branching and reduces stress once growth begins.
Early spring pruning helps:
- Remove broken or storm-damaged branches.
- Increase airflow and plant structure.
- Encourage fuller, more balanced growth.
It’s important to note that some flowering shrubs (like lilacs and forsythia) bloom on old wood and should be pruned after flowering. Knowing the difference prevents accidentally cutting off this year’s blooms, something our experienced team carefully considers when pruning.
Preparing Beds & Shrub Lines
Winter often leaves behind compacted soil, fallen debris, and flattened plant beds. Early spring is the perfect time to clean out leaves and sticks so sunlight and moisture can reach the roots.
Once beds are cleared, plants can begin warming up naturally as temperatures rise. This also gives you a clear look at any winter damage or areas that may need attention before growth accelerates.
Mulching: More Than Just Looks
Fresh mulch does more than make landscapes look tidy; it plays a key role in plant health. In early spring, mulching helps:
- Regulate soil temperature
- Retain moisture as the ground warms.
- Suppress early weed growth.
- Protect roots from late cold snaps.
Mulch should be applied evenly, keeping it a few inches away from the base of shrubs and tree trunks to avoid rot and pest issues.
Setting Up a Healthy Growing Season
Shrubs and hedges are long-term investments in your landscape. Proper pruning and mulching in early spring strengthen plants, improve appearance, and support consistent growth through summer.
If you’re seeking to renew your beds or aren’t sure what should be pruned, the team at Welch Lawn Care is here to help. Our professional pruning and mulching services guarantee your landscape is prepared for a beautiful, healthy season ahead. After all, a well-cared-for landscape means more great spots for springtime strolls, and maybe a sunny nap or two.