6 Late Winter Landscaping Projects
6 Late Winter Landscaping Projects
Late winter is an ideal time to take care of some landscaping projects. Here are 6 projects and points to consider that can give you a head start for spring.
- Ornamental Grasses – These can be cut back 6 – 12” from the ground. If you wait too late, the stems and leaves get brittle, break and scatter debris across the yard. Pruning also gets the old growth out of the way, making room for the new growth that will soon emerge.
- Roses – Late winter is the best time to do any heavy pruning of roses. Thinning out the big or older stems will allow for new growth and air circulation for better looking and healthier plants.
- Fruit Trees – This is the time for pruning and thinning cross-branches of fruit trees. Thin cross branches and cut back the long tips for a better, stronger crown. Dormant oil spray is good for trees this time of year to smother some of the insects that love these trees as much as we do.
- Mulching – Begin to think about mulching your landscape. The application of pre-emergent herbicide and mulch in combination does a great job of minimizing weeds. This can be done at any time, but you can expect better results if done early.
- Planting – Planting anytime in our area can be done with success. However, if you can plant before early April, this will allow for minimal watering during the summer. Roots will usually get the necessary water from Mother Nature, so not much is needed for quite some time. Mid-summer planting can be done, but with a need for more care.
- Planning – Begin planning now. Most plants are available throughout the year. However, if there is a specific plant you are looking for to fill a certain spot in your landscape, the selection of sizes and varieties in central Kentucky is best from April through June. Many plants cannot be dug between April and November. If they sell out in the spring, then new stock may not be available until the next digging season.
Taking care of some late winter clean-up projects and planning for the coming season can give you a head start on your spring landscaping needs. If you are considering hiring a landscaper to help you with your landscape projects, start talking to your local landscapers and garden centers now. About sixty percent of our business is done in the three months of spring. Lead times can get long if you wait until peak season to call, so consider calling early.
Since 1988, Glynn Young's Landscaping & Nursery Center has provided professional landscape design and installation services to the central Kentucky area. Stop by our 9-acre garden center to see our selection of plants, trees, perennials and ornamental grasses. Our knowledgeable staff can help you with your landscaping needs.