Spring has finally arrived in Calgary, but 2026 has brought some unique challenges for homeowners. With a longer winter and delayed snowmelt, yards are thawing later than usual, which makes timing your spring cleanup more important than ever. Preparing your garden and lawn at the right moment can mean the difference between a healthy, vibrant outdoor space and struggling plants. In this guide, we’ll walk you through Calgary-specific steps to refresh your yard, protect your plants, and get your outdoor spaces ready for the season ahead.
Assess and Plan Your Spring Yard Cleanup
Before diving into yard work, take a slow walk around your property. Look over your garden beds and outdoor spaces to spot any winter damage and see what areas will need attention. Calgary’s spring weather this year means you need to be strategic. Make sure cleanup happens after the snow has melted and the soil has fully thawed.
Key Steps to Assess Your Yard
- Look for frost heave around plants
- Spot any damaged trees, shrubs, or lawn areas
- Decide if you want to make any changes or additions to your landscape
Prune Trees and Shrubs for Healthy Growth
Pruning is important for plant health and helps your yard look its best. Remove dead or damaged branches with sharp, clean tools.
Pruning Tips
- Deciduous Trees: Prune before new buds appear. Winter is still the best time for these trees
- Evergreens: Lightly shape them and remove any winter-damaged foliage
- Flowering Shrubs: Cut back summer bloomers like hydrangeas now, but wait until after flowering for spring bloomers like lilacs
Pruning keeps your plants healthy and gives your yard a polished look.
Refresh Garden Beds and Borders for Spring
Calgary’s dry winters can leave garden beds looking tired. Here’s how to bring them back to life:
- Remove Debris: Clear out leaves, dead plants, and weeds
- Loosen Soil: Use a garden fork to aerate compacted soil
- Edge Beds: Redefine borders for a neat appearance
- Add Compost: Mix in organic matter to boost soil health
After planting, apply a layer of fresh mulch to retain moisture and keep weeds under control.
Prepare Your Lawn for Lush Growth This Spring
Spring is the perfect time to get your lawn ready for a healthy season.
Lawn Care Checklist
- Rake Thoroughly: Remove dead grass, leaves, and debris
- Aerate: Helps water and nutrients penetrate compacted soil
- Overseed: Fill bare patches with grass seed suited for Calgary’s climate
- Fertilize: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support early growth
Start lawn care once daytime temperatures consistently reach 10°C.
Maintain Perennials and Ornamental Grasses
Perennials and grasses also need attention to thrive:
- Cut Back Old Growth: Trim perennials to 4-5 inches and grasses to 2-3 inches
- Divide Overcrowded Plants: Share divisions or replant them elsewhere
- Fertilize Lightly: Add compost or gentle fertilizer to encourage healthy blooms
Compost Yard Waste for an Eco-Friendly Cleanup
Composting is a simple way to recycle yard waste and improve your soil.
Composting Tips
- Collect Yard Waste: Gather leaves, grass clippings, and plant debris
- Turn Regularly: Mixing the pile speeds up decomposition
- Avoid Adding Weeds with Seeds: Keep future weed problems at bay
Tidy Up Hardscapes: Paths, Patios, and Fences
Winter can take a toll on hard surfaces. Bring them back to life with these steps:
- Clean Walkways: Sweep and pressure wash patios and paths
- Repair Damage: Re-level pavers, refill gravel, and fix cracks
- Inspect Fences: Look for rot and repaint or stain wood surfaces
Final Touches for a Spring Ready Yard
Before you call it done, take care of a few last details:
- Check Irrigation Systems: Test sprinklers for leaks or clogs
- Set Up Outdoor Furniture: Clean and arrange seating areas
- Plan Seasonal Plantings: Choose hardy plants that suit Calgary’s growing season
Need Help with Spring Cleanup? Contact Landgraf Lawncare
The team at Landgraf Lawncare is ready to help with all your spring yard work. We provide Calgary-specific lawn and garden services to keep your outdoor spaces healthy and beautiful all season long.
Contact us today for a consultation and let us take the hassle out of your spring cleanup!
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