You were a conscientious gardener and waited to begin your spring clean-up until after April 15 (even though it was killing you!) Good for you–now what? As you eagerly get to work, here are a few guidelines to keep in mind:
* Clean (but not too clean): When cutting down old plant canes, leave a few inches standing. Stem-nesting bees have probably emerged–but it won’t be long before they’re looking for a place to raise their own families, and what better spot than their old neighborhood? Leaving 8 inches or more of standing stems will provide a place for a new life cycle to begin. A variety of different heights will provide the best habitat opportunities. The stubble may look unsightly for a short while, but new foliage will soon hide it from view.
* Is this something?: Be patient with emerging plants. If you don’t recognize something, it might be a weed…or, a happy surprise reseeded from an existing native! Emerging plants can look very similar to each other–for example, dogbane and milkweed–so when in doubt, give it a few weeks and check back.
* Stepping out: When cleaning out a larger bed, it’s so easy to step in an area where plants are emerging. A working path of wood chips or stepping stones makes clean-up easier, and prevents the soil from becoming compacted. At the SBG, our paths invite visitors to explore the habitat, while simultaneously protecting the garden beds.
And don’t forget to pause to enjoy the fresh air, sunshine, and evidence of new life springing forth. Happy clean-up!
