Spring garden prep in Exeter

Want to tackle spring prep yourself? Here's how to do it efficiently:

🔧 Tools you'll need

• Wheelbarrow (essential)
• Garden rake and stiff brush
• Secateurs for cutting back dead stuff
• Kneeler pad for weeding
• Loads of garden waste bags
• Garden fork for stubborn weeds

🌱 Working efficiently

1. Start at the back, work toward the front (don't trap yourself)
2. Do one area completely before moving on
3. Pile waste in one spot, then bag it all at the end
4. Weed beds properly - get the roots out
5. Take breaks - it's harder work than you think

🗑️ Dealing with waste

• Garden waste bags from council (order ahead)
• Local tip if you've got a car big enough
• Check collection dates for garden waste
• Compost what you can (not weeds with seeds)

⚠️ Common mistakes

• Starting too early (more wet weather ruins your work)
• Not getting weed roots out (they just come back)
• Leaving waste bags for weeks (they go slimy)
• Trying to do it all in one day (you'll be destroyed)
• Wearing rubbish gloves (blisters)

💡 Pro trick: Work in sections - completely finish the front garden one weekend, side or back the next. More satisfying than half-doing everything and it stays tidy while you work on the rest.

🌧️ Timing matters

• Wait until soil is dry enough to work (not soggy)
• Avoid working beds when they're waterlogged (damages soil structure)
• Check weather forecast - rain next day ruins freshly swept paths
• Late March to early April is usually ideal in Devon

🌿 What to tackle

• ✅ Clear leaves and debris
• ✅ Weed beds thoroughly
• ✅ Cut back dead perennials from last year
• ✅ Sweep and edge paths
• ✅ Clear gutters and drains while you're at it
• ❌ Don't prune everything (some plants flower on old wood)
• ❌ Don't dig over beds if soil is wet