Re-Awaken Your Garden for Spring

Even though Farmers’ Almanac tells us the first day of spring 2025 is on Thursday, March 20, at 5:01 AM EDT (the Vernal Equinox) it’s likely we won’t see regular sunny, warm days until mid-April. For the past 10+ years, March still means winter weather here in New England (Zone 6b), and most outdoor plantings can’t happen until early- to mid-May.

If fall is time to put gardens to bed, then spring is certainly a time of re-awakening and renewal. Avid gardeners agree that spring is the most wonderful time of the year! After several months of limited daylight hours, cold temperatures, snow, and too many layers of clothing, New Englanders welcome warmer temperatures, longer daylight hours, lighter-weight attire, and much more time outdoors.

Spring’s rebirth is evidenced by the appearance of colorful buds and new growth on evergreens and deciduous shrubs. You’ll notice the sprouting of crocus, muscari, tulips, and other early bulbs, hear baby bird songs, and—if you’re lucky!—see young rabbits, foxes, coyotes, and many other animals.

Here’s how you can start your garden for the spring:

• Remove mulch, fallen branches, and leaves.
• Apply 1-2 inches of aged compost/manure/humus.
• Test the soil and amend it as needed.

When the garden is prepped, it’s time to turn your attention indoors to start seeds for your annuals, perennials, and vegetables. While you’re waiting for the garden to be ready for planting, take the time to thoroughly clean and sanitize all your garden tools and clean bird baths and feeders.

Apply fertilizer in early spring, and your garden should be ready for outdoor planting when the danger of frost has passed.

Hellebores (Lenten Rose), snowdrops, crocus, species tulips, muscari and hardy rhubarb are the first signs of spring in my garden. What signals the new season in yours?

For more information on the Burlington Garden Club, its program schedule and membership, please check our website.

This story originally appeared in Buzz Magazine: Spring Edition, 2025.