Table of Contents
Entrance gardens are the first impression of your home. Proper seasonal care ensures they stay healthy, vibrant, and welcoming all year round. Knowing what to do each month helps you stay ahead of pests, diseases, and weather challenges.
January and February: Planning and Protection
During the cold winter months, focus on planning your garden layout and preparing for the upcoming growing season. Protect tender plants with mulch or coverings. Prune any dead or damaged branches to promote healthy growth.
March: Early Spring Preparation
As temperatures rise, start cleaning up the garden by removing debris and dead plants. Prepare soil by adding compost or organic matter. Early planting of hardy annuals and bulbs can begin indoors or in protected areas.
April: Planting and Fertilizing
Plant new flowers, shrubs, and trees. Fertilize existing plants to promote healthy growth. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, and address them promptly. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
May: Growing and Maintaining
This is a prime time for planting annuals and perennials. Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Deadhead flowers to encourage more blooms. Keep pathways clean and weed-free to enhance curb appeal.
June: Summer Care
Ensure consistent watering, especially during hot days. Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture. Prune to shape plants and remove any damaged growth. Consider installing lighting to highlight your entrance garden at night.
July and August: Peak Season Maintenance
Monitor for pests and diseases regularly. Fertilize as needed to support ongoing blooms. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation. Keep the garden tidy and remove any weeds promptly.
September: Preparing for Fall
Start reducing watering frequency as temperatures drop. Plant fall-blooming flowers and bulbs for next spring. Rake fallen leaves and compost them or use as mulch. Prune back overgrown shrubs.
October: Fall Cleanup and Planting
Complete fall cleanup by removing dead plants and clearing debris. Plant hardy bulbs like tulips and daffodils. Cover sensitive plants with mulch or frost cloth to protect them from early frosts. Adjust watering based on rainfall.
November: Final Preparations
Reduce watering further as the weather cools. Protect evergreen shrubs and delicate plants with mulch or burlap. Clean and store gardening tools. Plan any changes or new plantings for the next year.
December: Rest and Reflection
Take time to enjoy the winter landscape. Protect plants from harsh weather with mulch or covers. Review your garden’s successes and challenges from the past year. Use this time for planning and ordering new plants for the upcoming season.