When to start your spring clean-up in the GTA

It's tempting to start raking the first warm weekend of spring, but working on a soggy lawn does more harm than good. Here's how to time your spring clean-up in the GTA, usually some time in April.

Wait for firm ground

Walk across the lawn. If your footprints sink in or water squelches up, give it a few more dry days. Raking or walking on saturated soil compacts it and tears out grass that is just waking up.

Clear the winter debris

Once the ground is firm, clear leaves, sticks and litter from the lawn and garden beds. A gentle rake lifts grass that was matted down under the snow and lets air and light reach it.

Cut back last year's growth

Cut back perennials and ornamental grasses left standing over winter before new shoots get tall, so you don't damage the fresh growth.

Prune winter damage

Remove broken, dead or damaged branches from shrubs. Hold off on heavier pruning of spring-flowering shrubs until after they bloom.

Edge and refresh the beds

Re-cut bed edges, pull early weeds and top up mulch once the soil has warmed. The beds will look finished and stay tidier for longer.

First cut of the season

Start mowing when the grass is actively growing, with the mower set on the high side. Regular cuts from here on keep the lawn thick and healthy.

Want it done for you?

A spring clean-up from Twisted Oak Landscaping covers all of the above. Quotes are free and we reply within 24 hours.