Today is the first day of spring, March 20th 2025. The first day of spring is a time of renewal, signaling the end of winter’s chill and the start of longer, sunnier days. For gardeners, it’s a moment to embrace new possibilities and prepare for the growth and beauty that lie ahead. As the earth awakens from its winter slumber, the first day of spring offers a fresh start to the gardening season.
The first day of spring is also the beginning of a new cycle for pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and other helpful insects will start emerging once the daily temperatures are consistently 50 degrees and above. Providing a garden filled with native plants and flowers will ensure they have the food and habitat they need to thrive. This is a great time to plan for a pollinator-friendly garden by choosing plants that support local wildlife.
Even though it’s now officially spring, it is still too early to do much besides planning in our hardiness zone of 7a. Wait to cleanup the garden until it’s warm enough for pollinators to begin being active. This is really important so that we do not cleanup and throw away the pollinators that are hibernating inside brown plant material, leaves, and mulch.
One of the most exciting aspects of spring gardening is the opportunity to plant early crops and flowers. Hardy vegetables like spinach and peas can be sown as soon as the ground is workable.
As the first day of spring arrives, step outside, feel the fresh air, and take in the beauty of nature’s awakening. It’s time to plan, plant, and enjoy the season of growth ahead!
This is a good time to:
- Add compost and organic matter to flower beds and vegetable garden beds.
- Sow early crops, which can be peas, spinach, and radish. Other crops can be started indoors.
- Observe the garden for any issues like damaged branches, browning on evergreens.
- Make a list of necessary tasks to do this season, and things you would like to do.
- Apply an organic fertilizer to special needs plants, the vegetable garden, and the lawn.
