Spring officially starts next Tuesday.

I like that. It means spring break is just around the corner and longer days are becoming familiar. It means everything flowering will start percolating and cheery forsythia will start screaming amazing colors soon. My five ornamental dogwoods are swelling with anticipation of another glorious showing of pinks and whites. And tulips, daffodils and crocus are pushing through the earth, softening even the crustiest of attitudes.

Spring means fresh-skinned joggers and spandex bikers become the road warriors they hunger to be, and new mommies and daddies can introduce their babies to fresh air and warm sunshine. Dogs are overjoyed they can “do their business” in a relaxed fashion and walkers are everywhere. So are the smiles.

Spring also brings with it a few necessaries to get your landscape beds in shape for the year. Here’s an immediate concern list:

• How’s your mower, Weed Eater and blower? In need of a tune-up or cleaning?
• Ornamental grasses and perennials need cut to the ground NOW. Cut back too late and you risk damaging hidden new growth.
• Resist the urge to prune spring and summer flowering shrubs. You will likely prune off the reason you love them … their flowers. Wait a few weeks after blooming and then prune.
• Hard prune some woodies that are too … woody. Call me for specifics.
• Pre-emergent weed control needs applied now through mid-May for confident results. Miss this window and anticipate extra weeding in your schedule.
• I’m a spring mulch guy and want the beds to look rich through the entire season. Mypreference is the color-enhanced black or dark brown, premium shredded hardwood mulch. Confirm it is void of pallets and other nasty fillers for the healthiest plants and luxury appearance. Check out www.youtube.com/randysorrell for a stimulating mulch explanation.
• Walk your house perimeter and inspect gutters and downspouts to confirm they are clear and exiting far enough away from the house. Look for loose roof shingles while you are at it, and any siding damage from curious critters seeking shelter in your attic.Take immediate action on any of these concerns.

Enough talk about chores. Are you ready to enjoy this spring like never before? Me too!

Randy Sorrell is founder and president of SURROUNDINGS by NatureWorks+, a Carmel-based landscape, design, build firm. He may be reached at 679-2565, [email protected] or www.choosesurroundings.com.