Warmer temperatures are on the horizon in Charlotte and with the winter frost now behind us, it’s time to prepare our gardens and yards for the upcoming seasons. Many factors go into a successful crop, and this change of season is the perfect time to adjust your planting plans accordingly. The climate, the season, and potential pests all affect the selection of what and when to plant. Keep the following things in mind when you start to plant, seed, and harvest your next garden.
Know What’s Right for Your Region
One of the most important things to start when growing plants, herbs, or vegetables is considering where you are geographically. In the Carolinas we are lucky enough to have generally warm weather throughout most of the year, but it’s vital to have the right expectations for your sunlight and soil.
Fortunately, almost any type of vegetable or fruit can be grown successfully provided you plan correctly. Early spring crops include broccoli, collards, cabbage, kale, onions, spinach, beets, carrots, and turnips. In late spring, focus on planting things like tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, and squash to watch them grow throughout the summer.
Before you start planting, research typical weather patterns for that time of year. By the time we reach mid-March, most of the Charlotte area is working its way past any frosty temperatures. The warmth of the soil will affect which plants grow successfully in your yard.
Find the Perfect Spot for Sunlight
Finding the right place to garden is a crucial step. Think about what you would like to plant specifically and research what kind of sunlight, soil, and attention they grow best in and then audit your yard for the best solution. The more you garden, the more you'll learn about what works best in your spaces and what might need to be altered.
On an aesthetic note, think about where you’d personally like to see your plants grow. Do you have a bay window in your kitchen with a perfect view out back? Do you have a patio and furniture near a spot that would grow well? Consider your quality of life when planting because we all know that once those seeds start to bud, you’ll love to see the colorful growth.
When in Doubt, Consult a Professional
If you hit roadblocks in your gardening journey, don’t fret. We have several local plant shops and gardening pros around the Charlotte area to help bring life back into your yards. Check out local garden shops and clubs for tips on growing in Charlotte. We also have a plethora of public gardens to visit around the city including Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens, UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens, The McGill Rose Garden, Wing Haven, and more.
There is also routine maintenance that you can perform in your yards that will help any eventual harvest. When considering your spring home maintenance checklist, don’t forget about the outside chores. Regular pruning, mowing, trimming, and fertilizing can make a solid foundation for anywhere you might eventually plant. It’s also important to watch for new signs of growth throughout the year so that you can prepare your yard accordingly when you start to tackle your seasonal landscape. Check stonework for frost heaves, particularly in paths and edging. Better Homes & Gardens suggests checking the general condition of your deck or patio and making any needed repairs during the springtime prep. Also remember to clean off outdoor furniture so it's ready for its most popular season.
While your garden starts to wake up this spring, consider some of these tips when you are planning what and when to plant. Halfway through the spring season, you should start seeing your hard work come to life as more and more bulbs, perennials, shrubs, and trees grow and bloom. And with most of the routine maintenance done, you can get started on adding new plants to your garden and enjoying your beautiful home!