With the unusually warm days we’ve been enjoying in the Denver Metro area, it’s tempting to get outside and start working in the yard. While it may feel like spring is just around the corner, it’s important to remember that Colorado’s snowiest months are still ahead. However, these mild temperatures offer the perfect opportunity to get a head start on prepping your yard for spring without risking damage from future cold snaps.
Here are some smart, productive tasks you can tackle now to set your yard up for success when spring officially arrives:
🌱 1. Clean Up Debris and Tidy Garden Beds
- Clear out fallen leaves, broken branches, and leftover plant material from last season.
- Be mindful of perennials and leave some mulch around their base for protection against late-season freezes.
- Avoid heavy raking, as grass is still dormant and can be easily damaged.
🌷 2. Prune Trees and Shrubs (But Choose Wisely!)
- Late winter is the ideal time to prune most deciduous trees and summer-blooming shrubs.
- Avoid pruning spring-blooming plants like lilacs or forsythia, as you’ll risk cutting off the buds.
- Look for dead, damaged, or crossing branches and trim them to encourage healthy growth.
🌸 3. Start Planning Your Garden
- Map out your garden beds, decide what flowers or vegetables you want to grow, and order seeds if needed.
- Consider native or drought-tolerant plants that thrive in Colorado’s climate.
- If you’re thinking about adding new landscaping features, this is a great time to plan and budget for them.
🌾 4. Refresh Mulch and Protect Plants
- Adding a light layer of mulch around shrubs, trees, and flower beds helps insulate roots from temperature fluctuations.
- Mulch also suppresses early weeds and retains moisture as the days warm up.
- Be sure to keep mulch a few inches away from tree trunks and plant stems to prevent rot.
🚿 5. Check Irrigation Systems (But Keep Them Off!)
- Inspect your sprinkler system for damage from winter freezes, but don’t turn it on just yet.
- Clean out clogged drip lines and replace any broken heads.
- When the weather truly warms up in spring, you’ll be ready to water without surprises.
❄️ Bonus Tip: Stay Weather-Aware
While it’s tempting to dive into full spring mode, remember that March and April are historically Denver’s snowiest months. Be cautious about planting anything tender, and keep an eye on the forecast.
🌼 Final Thoughts
These warmer days are a gift, allowing us to enjoy some sunshine while getting a jumpstart on prepping your yard for spring. By tackling light cleanup, pruning, and planning now, you’ll set the stage for a vibrant, healthy yard once spring officially arrives. Just don’t pack away the snow shovel yet—Colorado weather loves to keep us on our toes!
Curb appeal plays a crucial role in making your home stand out, whether you’re planning to stay or preparing to sell. A well-maintained yard not only creates a welcoming atmosphere but also adds value to your property. If you’re thinking about making a move, let’s connect and discuss how strategic updates can help you sell your house for top dollar. Together, we can make sure your home shines in today’s market.