The crocus is almost ready to peek through the ground. It won’t be long now and the earth will bring out a burst of colors to herald the beauty of Spring. It’s the time of the year when gardeners can hardly wait to start their spring planting. 

It is not too early to start thinking of your garden. Take a look at the pictures you took of your garden last summer. You did take pictures, right? Think of what you liked about your garden and what you didn't like. What would you like more of this year? Do you have any new projects in mind for this year? 

Color
The multitude of colors bursting from the garden is one of the most attractive features. Be inspired to try a different mix of colors. This can easily be done by rearranging the placement of your plants.

I know I have to move the iris and some of the day lilies this Spring. These plants tend to take over the garden. I’d like to see more yellow color in my garden this year. This is an exhilarating color!

Think of the plants that have to be thinned out, or perhaps were in the wrong spot last summer. Experiment with different varieties of plants for an exciting display of colors in your garden.

Soil
Plants will do better with proper soil nutrients. Compost is a very rich source of nutrients and it is also good for the environment.

Do you need to check the acidity or alkalinity of the soil? Kits sold for the home gardener are available at your local nursery or garden center. These kits allow you to check your soil yourself. Be sure to pay attention to your window boxes and other pots and planters. It is recommended that the soil in these containers be changed at least every five years.

Tip: Consider Cover Crops

Design
Do you have a theme or motif in your garden? Something that is a centerpiece of all the centerpieces. This is what’s creative about gardening. It allows you to express yourself and enhance your creativity.

This is where you incorporate features like garden ornaments. But don’t make your garden too busy. Do you have a bench or chair where you can sit and relax, or rest as you work in the garden? Do you like the sound of wind chimes?

There are endless ideas to enhance the beauty of your garden and turn it to a work of art and a place for you to relax and meditate.

Budget
How lucky for those who do not have to worry about dollars and cents. Gardening can be an expensive hobby. You can start saving a bit for your gardening expenses now. With a bit of imagination you can come up with awe inspiring container gardens that will blow the mind of your family and friends.

Garden ornaments can be costly. I found some good and tasteful ornaments at the dollar shops and at garage sales.

Pesky animals
Be prepared. If a deer has discovered your garden, chances are it will be back every year. There are plants that are resistant to most animals. I know that geraniums and marigolds are safe. Roses attract the deer.

There are ways to protect your garden from these destructive intruders without causing them harm. You might consider plants that repel these animals.

I gave up planting tulips. The chipmunks love them. There are other Spring bulbs that repel these creatures. Daffodils and other members of the alium family are just as colorful and lovely to look at. Take time to explore the possibilities and experiment. Happy gardening!!