The arrival of spring marks a time when the beauty of nature begins to unfold, inviting us to engage with the outdoors. April, designated as Lawn and Garden Month, celebrates the art and craft of gardening. It was also created to encourage more people into their gardens.
As we enter this month, get ready to don your gardening gloves, breathe in the fresh air and embark on a journey of creation and care in your outdoor spaces. We’re sharing tips on how you can celebrate the month and get others involved, as well.
The tools of the trade
While gardening can be a fun pastime, it is also a science that requires patience, precision and the right equipment. Whether a seasoned gardener or a green-thumbed newbie, the proper tools can make all the difference in cultivating a thriving garden.
Back to the basics
Specific tools are the backbone of every gardener’s arsenal. Equip yourself with a sturdy shovel for digging, a dependable rake to clear debris and spread soil, and durable gloves to protect your hands from unexpected thorns and injuries. For those with a lawn, a high-quality and reliable lawn mower is essential to maintain the length of your grass and keep a neat, well-manicured garden.
For those seasoned gardeners with a basic toolkit ready to go, consider National Garden Month the encouragement you need to upgrade to more specialized tools tailored to your garden’s specific needs and gardening goals. For instance, if you hope to sculpt beautiful hedges or cultivate perennials, a high-quality pair of pruning shears can make all the difference. As your garden goals evolve, further research will help you identify the right equipment to support your gardening journey.
Safety first
While the fun of gardening is undeniable, it comes with a set of safety concerns. High-risk equipment like chainsaws, while efficient for trimming branches and shaping trees, demands caution and respect for safety precautions.
For example, chainsaw accidents are not uncommon. The consequences can range from minor cuts to life-threatening injuries. This reality highlights the need to adhere to safety measures, equip yourself with the appropriate protective gear and understand all manufacturers’ safety guidelines and instructions. Importantly, this holds true for all power equipment you use in your garden, ensuring a safe start to this gardening month and continued well-being for practiced gardeners.
Involving children in family gardening
Lawn and Garden Month is a perfect opportunity to introduce children to gardening. Gardening is a great way to connect children to nature, teach them about the environment and help them develop a sense of responsibility. And while there is a wide range of spring activities for kids, gardening can be one of the most rewarding.
Starting simple
At the outset, it is important to prioritize the child’s interest rather than their skill or the garden’s needs. Having this designated month to promote gardening is a great way to build anticipation and excitement.
Start them off with simple, enjoyable and rewarding tasks. Planting seeds, for example, can be an enriching and high-yield activity. Children can quickly see the fruits of their labors as their plants grow. Similarly, watering plants is another easy task that teaches accountability and helps them understand the importance of consistency.
Kristen Wood of the gardening site Schisandra and Bergamot shared: “For me, Lawn and Garden Month is a great time to plant a new tree in the yard. It’s an excellent way to contribute to a healthier environment, enjoy the outdoors and leave a lasting legacy that will grow for years to come. What better way to celebrate?”
Fostering ownership and responsibility
As children become more comfortable and confident in the garden, you can gradually involve them in more complex activities. Allowing them to support you in the planning and management of the garden, like developing the garden’s layout or choosing the plants they would like to grow, can be stimulating and educational. Moreover, this will instill a sense of ownership and investment in the garden’s success.
Taking it a step further, creating a dedicated space for them to tend to, whether a raised bed or a few pots on the balcony, can make the experience more personal and engaging. This space can foster experimentation and skills development, acting as a blank canvas for their creativity.
Enjoying outdoor spaces
Your gardens and lawns have the potential to be more than just patches of green. They can be private oases for relaxing and entertaining. Take advantage of this monthlong gardening celebration to level up your garden and create an outdoor sanctuary for relaxation and socializing.
Laying the groundwork
If you are contemplating landscaping, consider a variety of plants and flowers, incorporating varied colors, textures and heights to create an exciting gardenscape.
Adding personal features
Once you’re happy with your garden’s natural foundation, start thinking about your goals for the space and add elements to achieve them. Patio furniture is a versatile staple, creating a multi-purpose area for dining, lounging and entertaining.
Fire pits have also become a popular outdoor addition, adding warmth and ambiance to your lounging area. Importantly, while cozy and aesthetic, fire pits can damage your green spaces. Use a heat shield or a non-flammable surface under your fire pit. This measure ensures you can enjoy your space without compromising your lawn’s health.
Make the most of the month
Gardening can be more than just a hobby. It is an opportunity to create a living tapestry that reflects your personal style, supports the environment and provides a space for relaxation and enjoyment. Make the most of Lawn and Garden Month this April to embrace the joys of gardening and outdoor living — maybe you’ll even find a new hobby that takes you through the springtime.
Whether you’re planting a new flower bed, revamping your lawn or simply enjoying the tranquility of your garden, remember that every effort contributes to a greener, more beautiful world. So, get ready, grab your gardening gloves and get growing!
Daniel Morris is the founder of Fire and Saw, a blog that focuses on chainsaws, wood stoves, fireplaces, axes and related topics. Along with his wife, Naomi, Daniel operates the site, where he shares his passion for these subjects.
