Hello dear family,

Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow, predicting an early spring on Groundhog Day! 

It's always refreshing to hear about an early spring! It's so hopeful that dark and cold short days will be over soon and we'll be able to enjoy outdoors soon. Not so fast, let's do what we need to do before that. Let's embrace the cold and be in the moment...

Getting ready for spring in February involves a mix of preparations indoors and some initial steps outdoors. 

Here are some general plans to help you prepare:

Indoor Tasks:

1. Gardening Planning:
   • Start planning your spring garden. Decide what plants, flowers, or vegetables you want to grow and order seeds if necessary.
2. Seed Starting:
   • If you're starting plants from seeds, begin the indoor seed-starting process. Follow recommended timelines for each type of plant.
3. Cleaning and Organizing:
   • Declutter and organize indoor spaces. Consider doing a deep clean, focusing on areas that may have been neglected during the winter.
4. Home Maintenance:
   • Check your home for any maintenance tasks. This could include inspecting the roof, cleaning gutters, and servicing your HVAC system.
5. Spring Cleaning:
   • Begin spring cleaning tasks. Dusting, vacuuming, and cleaning windows can help freshen up your living spaces.

Outdoor Tasks:

1. Pruning:
   • Prune trees and shrubs while they are still dormant. Remove dead or damaged branches to encourage healthy growth.
2. Clean Garden Beds:
   • Clean up garden beds by removing debris, old plants, and weeds. This prepares the soil for new growth.
3. Soil Preparation:
   • Test and amend your garden soil if necessary. Adding compost or other soil amendments can improve its quality.
4. Tool Check:
   • Inspect and clean your gardening tools. Make sure everything is in working order and ready for use.
5. Early Planting:
   • In milder climates, you can start planting some cold-hardy vegetables and flowers outdoors.
6. Mulching:
   • Apply mulch to garden beds to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
7. Outdoor Cleanup:
   • Clear away any debris, such as fallen branches or dead plants, from your outdoor spaces.
8. Bird Feeding:
   • Set up bird feeders to attract birds to your garden. They can help with pest control and add to the overall biodiversity.

Remember, specific tasks may vary depending on your location and local climate. Check gardening zones and weather conditions for the most accurate guidance. These early preparations in February will set the stage for a smoother transition into the full swing of spring.

Have a great weekend!