Contractor's Corner: Get a Jump on Spring With Smart Yard Prep

Curb Appeal Doesn’t Wait for Perfect Weather

Spring in the Upper Valley is a bit... moody. One day it’s 60 and sunny and the next you’re dreading snow in the forecast. Our best advice? Hold out for sun and start getting your yard into shape now—especially if selling your home is on your radar this year. Here’s how to make the most of these unpredictable early spring days with some smart yard prep that’ll have your curb appeal blooming before the daffodils do.

1. Rake Out Flower Beds Early

Get those flower beds cleaned out! Clearing dead leaves and debris gives new growth the space and sunlight it needs to thrive. Plus, it’ll save you from compacting the soil later when the plants have started to pop up.

2. Weed Walkways Before They Take Over

This is the time to patrol your paths and walkways. Early weeding keeps those pesky roots from getting too deep—and you’ll save yourself from the battle of summer overgrowth.

3. Rake That Lawn, Even if It’s Not “Technically” Spring

Yes, it’s early. Yes, it might snow again. But raking now helps wake up your lawn and kickstart the green-up. Trust me—your grass will look better faster, and your neighbors will notice. Green with envy? Absolutely.

4. Inspect  Your Gardening Tools

Grab your clippers, shovels, watering cans and hoses and give them a once-over. A sharpened blade or a quick fix now can save you loads of time and frustration later.

5. Prune and Fertilize Select Perennials

Trim back perennials like hydrangeas and hostas before things get too leafy. Pruning now gives them room to grow strong and full. We rely on this guide to seasonal pruning. While you're at it, give them a little fertilizer love to support early growth. 

6. Prepping New Beds? Start Now

Thinking of adding a new garden bed or expanding an existing one? This is the perfect time to prep the area, pull up sod, fertilize, and aerate the soil. You’ll be ready to plant the moment the weather fully turns.

7. Edge Your Lawn

Crisp edges = instant upgrade. Use this in-between time to redefine the edges of your lawn, garden beds, and walkways. It’s a small detail that makes a big visual impact—especially if you're gearing up to sell.

8. Mulch Matters

Fresh mulch not only cleans up the look of your landscaping, but it also locks in moisture and keeps weeds at bay. Don’t go heavy just yet—but getting a light layer down early sets you up for success.

Fogg's Hardware located in Norwich is a great resource for all things lawn care and more. Here I've linked you to their Projects & Tips page where they offer plenty of yard tips specific to Spring maintenance. 

Bottom line: Early spring in New England might be messy, but your yard doesn’t have to be. A little work now goes a long way—and if you’re thinking about selling, it can boost that all-important first impression. Need more tips or wondering if this is your year to sell? Reach out to us at Black House Real Estate.

Call the Foggs- They Know Homes.

Thinking Of Selling?

Now is the perfect time to meet with us.

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(603) 678-8056