Great Ideas on Cleaning Up Backyards

Pick Up Debris

• Begin your outdoor cleanup by picking up any debris that may have been deposited in your yard due to storms, wind or winter snow. Be sure to wear gloves to avoid touching any bacteria or mold that might have grown during the fall and winter season. Look over any items that you have left outdoors as well. Dispose of any broken or rotted pieces of furniture or equipment.

Raking Is a Must

• Lawns and gardens need to be cleaned as well. Removing dead leaves and plants allows new growth to sprout. Rake lawns of any leaves and grass thatch to help promote new grass growth. Gently rake away any dead plants, stems and leaves from garden beds to get them ready for new plantings. Once lawns are raked, consider spreading a "weed and feed" type lawn fertilizer, organic if possible to prevent any water contamination. Add organic fertilizer to vegetable and flower gardens. Once cleanup is complete, make a run to the local garden center for flowers and plants to put into your garden.

Mulch Your Garden

• Mulch helps with water retention and weed prevention in any garden. After you've cleaned up the garden area, measure the amount of mulch in your garden areas and around trees. Mulch should be at least three inches thick to be most successful. A quick stop at the garden center will allow you to purchase the appropriate mulch for your yard. Consider using un-dyed, natural material like cocoa bean pods or natural wood chips.

Paint and Renew

• Spruce up your yard by re-painting any fences or yard furniture. Metal furniture can easily be repainted using a high-gloss metal paint while fences can be stained or white-washed with paint. This type of spring cleaning can give you an immediate visual impact as well as giving you a fresh new look to enjoy. Check your old cushions for tears and either recover them or purchase new. Confirm that any containers for planting are in good shape and paint them if necessary.