Proper spring cleanup involves more than simply picking up loose branches and other debris left exposed during the winter. While this is vital to maximize the growth of healthy grass, it is also important to rake the entire lawn and to clean garden beds in order to remove dead leaves and annuals that you intend to replace. From there, consider laying compost near plant roots to support their growth. About two-and-a-half centimeters of compost around perennial plants should be sufficient.

Before pruning overgrown shrubs and trees, identify the plants in your yard and determine the kind of care they require. For instance, some shrubs like rhododendrons and azaleas can be left alone until they bloom. Moreover, you should carefully inspect and clean all of your garden tools and clean them prior to the growing season. Edging and mulching are generally the last steps of an effective spring cleanup.