March Into Spring: Embracing the Season's Early Arrival

The Unpredictable Warmth of Early Spring

While the balmy weather invites us to start our springtime gardening, it's important to remember that early warmth doesn't guarantee a complete end to cold spells. The first weekend of the month reminded us that winter might still have a few surprises in store. Before you dive into planting and lawn care, consider these preparatory steps to ensure your garden thrives.

Gradual Mulch Removal

• Monitor Plant Growth: As your plants begin to show signs of life, start pulling back the winter mulch gradually.
• Protect Against Temperature Fluctuations: Winter mulch serves as a shield against sudden temperature changes and cold winds. Remove it over several days to acclimate your plants gently.
• Timing is Key: It's better to err on the side of caution and remove mulch a bit later rather than too soon.

Division and Transplantation

• Perennial Care: Begin dividing and relocating your summer-blooming perennials. Fertilize established ones as soon as you see new growth.
• Shrubs and Trees: Late March to early April is ideal for transplanting shrubs and trees. Ensure the soil is workable and that buds haven't yet opened.

Pruning and Cleanup

• Fruit Trees: Finish pruning fruit trees before the buds swell.
• Dead Bloom Removal: Clear away all dead blooms from bulbs to promote healthy growth.

Lawn Repair and Maintenance

• Assess Damage: Repair any damaged areas of your lawn. Consider dethatching, raking, or aerating.
• Feeding Schedule: Most lawns require a spring feeding. If thatching or liming is necessary, do these tasks first.
• Over-seeding: This should be the final step after fertilizing your lawn.

Addressing Drainage Issues

March is an opportune time to identify and rectify areas with poor drainage. If you notice standing water, either fill in low spots or create channels to facilitate drainage.

Ensuring Adequate Moisture

• Check Sheltered Plants: Plants under eaves or tall evergreens may need extra moisture.
• Watering Bulbs: Water all bulbs during growth phases, especially during foliage and bloom development.
• Summer-Flowering Bulbs: Irrigate these during dry spells, keeping water off the foliage and blooms.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), January 2023 ranked among the top ten warmest January months on record globally. This early onset of spring-like conditions has implications for plant and animal life cycles, as well as agricultural practices. For instance, a study published in the journal "Environmental Research Letters" suggests that early plant blooming can disrupt the synchrony between plants and pollinators, potentially affecting ecosystems and food supplies.

Interestingly, while many people are eager to start gardening in the early warmth, few discuss the potential for a "false spring." This phenomenon, where a warm spell is followed by a return to freezing temperatures, can damage new plant growth and affect fruit production. Gardeners should stay informed about local weather forecasts and be prepared to protect sensitive plants if a sudden cold snap is predicted.

As we march into spring, embracing the season's early arrival requires a balance of enthusiasm and caution. By preparing our gardens thoughtfully, we can ensure that they are resilient and ready to flourish in the face of an ever-changing climate.