Spring Landscaping Guide: Checklist, How-To, and Top Recommendations
Spring signals the start of a new growing season, making it the perfect time to refresh and prepare outdoor spaces. In West Seattle, where winters bring heavy rainfall and mild temperatures, landscapes often require clean-up, maintenance, and strategic planting to thrive.
This comprehensive guide outlines the essential spring landscaping checklist, provides step-by-step how-to instructions, and highlights top recommendations for creating a beautiful, resilient yard.
Spring Landscaping Checklist: Essential Tasks
Before making upgrades or planting new greenery, it’s important to address the foundational elements of the landscape. The following checklist ensures the yard is set up for a successful growing season.
1. Remove Winter Debris & Clean Up the Landscape
Rake away leaves, twigs, and organic debris that may block sunlight and airflow
Clear out moss and weeds that accumulated during the rainy months
Aerate compacted soil in lawns and garden beds to improve drainage
Inspect trees and plants for signs of disease or pest damage
2. Revitalize the Lawn
Overseed patchy or bare spots with cool-season grass seed
Apply a slow-release organic fertilizer to encourage healthy growth
Dethatch and aerate if compacted soil or moss buildup is present
Adjust soil pH with lime treatments if excessive moss is found
3. Prune & Trim for Stronger Growth
Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches from trees and shrubs
Trim overgrown hedges for better airflow and natural shape
Avoid pruning spring-flowering plants too early to prevent cutting off blooms
4. Prepare Garden Beds for Planting
Turn over soil and mix in organic compost for added nutrients
Select native and climate-friendly plants for low-maintenance landscaping
Add mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
5. Inspect Hardscape & Irrigation Systems
Power wash patios, decks, and walkways to remove dirt and mildew
Repair or replace damaged fences, gates, or retaining walls
Test irrigation systems for leaks, blockages, or inefficient water distribution
How to Get a Yard Ready for Spring
Beyond completing the checklist, strategic improvements can enhance curb appeal, promote sustainability, and reduce long-term maintenance.
1. Select the Right Plants for West Seattle’s Climate
Choosing native and drought-resistant plants ensures the landscape thrives with minimal upkeep.
Best Native Plants for West Seattle:
Evergreen Huckleberry – A hardy shrub ideal for privacy and wildlife attraction
Red Flowering Currant – A vibrant spring bloomer that supports pollinators
Vine Maple – A small, colorful tree that adds seasonal interest
2. Upgrade Outdoor Living Spaces
Hardscape elements create functional, aesthetically pleasing outdoor areas.
Popular Spring Hardscape Upgrades:
Install stone or gravel walkways to prevent muddy paths
Add raised garden beds for easier planting and improved soil drainage
Refresh fences with weather-resistant stain or paint for longevity
3. Optimize Watering Strategies
With Seattle’s dry summers and wet winters, an efficient irrigation system is essential.
Recommended Watering Techniques:
✔ Drip irrigation for flower beds and vegetable gardens
✔ Deep watering once a week to promote strong root growth
✔ Mulching around plants to reduce water loss and maintain soil temperature
Top Landscaping Recommendations for Spring
Investing in the right plants, materials, and upgrades can make all the difference in achieving a low-maintenance, visually appealing landscape.
Best Lawn Care Products
Organic slow-release fertilizer – Promotes steady, healthy grass growth
Lawn aerator tool – Helps loosen compacted soil for better root development
Best Perennials & Shrubs for Low-Maintenance Gardens
Lavender – Drought-resistant and pollinator-friendly
Coneflowers – Low-maintenance and thrive in full sun
Pacific Ninebark – A native shrub that adapts well to West Seattle’s climate
Best Hardscape Features to Add This Spring
Stone pathways – A durable and visually appealing alternative to traditional walkways
Wood trellises or pergolas – Enhances shade and provides structure for climbing plants
Water-efficient irrigation systems – Saves water while keeping plants healthy
A Well-Prepared Yard Leads to a Beautiful Outdoor Season
By following this spring landscaping checklist, applying the right techniques, and investing in smart upgrades, homeowners can create an outdoor space that thrives throughout the year. Preparing early in the season ensures a healthy, resilient landscape while reducing long-term maintenance needs.
For professional landscape design, installation, and maintenance in West Seattle, consider consulting with Monetti Landscape Design & Construction. Expert guidance and high-quality craftsmanship can transform any outdoor space into a stunning, functional retreat.
Schedule a consultation today to bring your landscape vision to life.
