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Spring Garden Prep Checklist: What to Do in April for Success All Season
Mar
April is a pivotal month for gardeners here in Southeastern Massachusetts (Zone 6b). As the soil begins to warm and daylight stretches longer, the work you do now sets the foundation for a thriving, beautiful landscape all season long. At Redwood Nursery in Swansea, we’re here to help you get your garden off to a strong start with the right plants, products, and guidance.
1. Clean Up Garden Beds
Start by removing winter debris—fallen branches, dead leaves, and any remaining plant material. This not only improves the look of your beds but also reduces the risk of pests and disease.
Pro tip: Be gentle around emerging perennials like Proven Winners varieties and native plants—many are just starting to push through the soil.
2. Refresh and Prepare Your Soil
Healthy soil is the backbone of a successful garden. Loosen compacted soil and mix in organic matter such as compost or enriched garden soil.
At Redwood Nursery, we recommend Espoma organic soils and soil conditioners to improve structure and fertility naturally. For garden beds and raised beds, this step is critical for strong root development.
3. Prune and Shape
Early spring is the time to prune many trees and shrubs before they fully leaf out. Remove dead or damaged branches and shape plants to encourage healthy growth.
Shrubs from the ColorChoice® and Proven Winners® collections especially benefit from proper early pruning to maximize blooms later in the season.
4. Apply Fertilizer
Feed your plants as they wake up from dormancy. A slow-release, organic fertilizer provides nutrients over time without overwhelming new growth.
We carry Espoma fertilizers, which are ideal for perennials, shrubs, and trees, as well as Bonide products for targeted plant care.
5. Start Planting Cool-Season Favorites
April is perfect for planting hardy perennials, trees, and shrubs. It’s also a great time to incorporate American Beauties native plants, which support pollinators and thrive in our local conditions.
Looking for something unique? Redwood Nursery specializes in rare and hard-to-find plants, giving your garden a distinctive edge.
6. Mulch for Moisture and Weed Control
Apply a fresh layer of mulch to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Bulk mulch delivery is available through Redwood Nursery—making it easy to cover large areas efficiently.
7. Stay Ahead of Weeds and Pests
Early intervention is key. Apply pre-emergent weed control where appropriate and monitor for early pest activity. Using trusted products like Bonide ensures you’re protecting your garden without guesswork.
Make It Easy This Season
Don’t forget—Redwood Nursery’s mobile app offers exclusive deals and seasonal promotions. Use code welcome24 for $10 off your first $65+ purchase.
Whether you’re refreshing your landscape or starting fresh, April is your moment to build a garden that thrives all season long. Visit us in Swansea or explore our selection online to get started.
FAQ
When is the best time to start planting in Zone 6b?
In Southeastern Massachusetts, April is ideal for hardy plants like perennials, trees, and shrubs. Wait until May for more tender annuals.
What fertilizer should I use in early spring?
A slow-release organic option like Espoma is best. It feeds plants gradually and supports long-term soil health.
Is it too early to mulch in April?
No—April is a great time to mulch. Just make sure the soil has started to warm and isn’t overly saturated.
What are the best plants to start with in spring?
Proven Winners perennials, ColorChoice shrubs, and native plants like American Beauties are all excellent choices for early planting.
Can Redwood Nursery help with garden design?
Yes—Redwood Nursery offers garden and landscape design services to help you plan and execute your ideal outdoor space.
