Garden Spring Cleaning Guide + Free Printable Checklist
Nothing says ‘spring cleaning’ like a little garden refresh, and on a warm, sunny day, this chore feels almost therapeutic after months of cold winter weather. If your weather is starting to cooperate, now’s the perfect time to prep your garden so you’re ready to roll once the frosty days are behind us.
To make things easier, I’ve put together a free printable spring cleaning checklist—so you can stay on top of all those essential gardening tasks without missing a beat. Let’s get your garden in tip-top shape and ready for the season ahead!
Let’s Get those Gardens Ready for Planting!
Spring cleaning in the garden is so important for setting the stage for a thriving season! Clearing out winter debris, pruning back dead growth, and refreshing your soil helps prevent pests and diseases while giving your plants the best chance to grow strong and healthy. Plus, it’s the perfect way to reconnect with your outdoor space after those long winter months. Let’s get those beds ready for vibrant blooms, lush greenery, and a garden that’s the envy of the neighborhood!
It’s a simple task that makes a big difference—and it’s a great excuse to enjoy a sunny day outdoors!
Want to know what garden tools I love? Check out my Must-Have Gardening Tools for Winter!
Spring Cleaning Checklist for your garden
Yard Cleanup, Prep, And Soil Care
Clear fallen leaves, twigs, and winter debris from flower beds, containers, and lawns.
Remove dead plants and weeds from garden beds.
Prune shrubs that don’t bloom in Spring and perennials to encourage new growth. Click here to see how I prune my Limelight Hydrangeas this time of year!
Cut back ornamental grasses and tidy overgrown areas, including lawn edges.
Clean and sanitize garden tools (trowels, shovels, pruners, etc.).
Wash out pots and containers to remove dirt and prevent disease.
Inspect and repair garden structures (trellises, fences, raised beds).
Test soil pH and nutrient levels, then amend with compost or organic matter.
Turn over soil in garden beds to loosen it and improve drainage.
Pull any weeds that you see before they have time to take root. This Grandpa’s Weeder makes weed-pulling easy!
Plant Prep
Divide and transplant overcrowded perennials like hostas and daylilies.
Harden off indoor-started plants by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.
Refresh container soil by replacing the top few inches or repotting entirely.
Inspect stored bulbs or tubers (e.g., gladiolas, dahlias, cannas) for rot or damage before planting.
Garden Planning
Start a gardening journal to track progress and plans.
Map out your garden layout, considering sunlight and spacing needs. Observe sunlight patterns to plan for shade vs. sun plants.
Order bulbs, seeds, or plants for late spring and summer planting.
Check your average last frost date and plan planting schedules accordingly. Do you know your frost-free date? Find out here!
Tool and Supply Check
Stock up on essentials like potting soil, fertilizer, and mulch during sales.
Sharpen blades on pruners, shears, and lawn mowers.
Organize gardening supplies for easy access.
Check irrigation systems or hoses for leaks and ensure they’re ready for use.
Keep frost protection materials (Here is the best frost cloth!) on hand for unexpected cold snaps.
Windows, Doors, and Entrances
Wash window panes with a vinegar or dish soap solution for a streak-free shine.
Clean window screens by removing, scrubbing with soapy water, and rinsing.
Wipe down window sills, frames, and hardware (latches, handles).
Wash exterior doors and polish handles/knobs. Clean glass panels and touch up paint if needed.
Shake out or hose down door mats; replace if worn.
Porches & Outdoor SPaces
Sweep and power wash porch floors and walls to remove dirt and grime.
Clean porch furniture, cushions, and outdoor rugs.
Dust light fixtures and replace burnt-out bulbs.
Wipe down railings, banisters, and screens; repair any tears.
Declutter and organize outdoor gear, tools, and toys.
Clean grill surfaces and outdoor cooking areas.
Refresh porch containers with cold-tolerant plants like pansies, snapdragons, or ornamental kale.
With this checklist, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running and make April your most productive planting month yet!
Ready to get started?
Find all the best garden tools here!
Check out my favorite tools to tackle the season—they’ll keep your garden prepped and thriving, even in the cold weather!
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