Spring Forward 2018
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Sunday, March 11, 2018 at 2 A.M. we “spring forward 2018” for the year. At 2 A.M. (or when you go to bed, if before 2 A.M.) set your clocks forward to 3 A.M. It is the time of year that we officially lose an hour for 8 months until we take it back on November 4, 2018.

Started originally to fully utilize the daylight hours which are longer from March to November. It is not a federal law that requires the nation to participate in this confusing practice. There are 2 states that do not take part in daylight savings time, Arizona and Hawaii.

When springing forward, it is a good time to schedule spring maintenance chores.

  • scalp and fertilize the lawn
  • wash windows
  • clean the gutters
  • power wash driveway and sidewalks
  • get your AC ready for summer
  • re-stain and re-seal wood decking

The best way to maintain your property and conserve the value, is by doing preventative maintenance.

Spring is the best time to take care of outdoor jobs. You’ll be able to get them out of the way before the onset of summer. Much of the debris from winter still may be lingering around and needs to be cleaned before enjoying your yard through the spring and summer seasons. Seasonal plants, such as ornamental grasses, are better suited for the colder months. They need to be cut back in order to preserve them.

The upkeep of the yard is a crucial part of property maintenance. It helps to know about seasonal maintenance, including spring yard clean up and fall clean up if you want to have a beautiful lawn and garden.

  • Removing Debris
    The first and foremost task as part of spring yard clean up is to remove refuse, including dead leaves, twigs, and litter from the yard and planting beds. You can also rake your lawn to control thatch buildup.
  • Preparing Planting Beds
    Use compost on the garden beds and chemicals, if required, to prepare the plants for spring. Be sure to remove the weeds and use a tiller to break the ground.
  • Planting in the Prepared Flower Beds and Lawns
    Early spring is an ideal time to plant shrubs, trees, and perennials. Also, you can start new lawns to get the desired outcome.
  • Weed Control
    It helps to manage weeds such as crabgrass before they emerge using landscape fabric, mulch, and herbicides. Also, be sure to deal with garden pests in the best way possible to protect your garden and lawn.
  • Prune Trees and Shrubs
    Trees and shrubs also benefit from a bit of spring cleaning. Be sure to prune winterkill on branches and dead limbs to ward off diseases and improve the overall aesthetics.
  • Mulch and Divide Your Garden
    If you have applied a deep layer of mulch, be sure to scrape it away from your perennials because it may smother the plants. Once the ground begins to thaw, check if your perennials are pushing up. Remove the mulch and reapply it once the plants grow a few inches to prevent the growth of weeds.