Spring is here! But before you get too excited...
- Tigertown Farm
- Mar 21
- 2 min read
Days are getting warmer, snow is melting, the sun has been shining, and we're all starting to feel the spring fever! While the temptation to go outside and start digging in the dirt is strong, let's pause for a moment to think about our pollinator friends before diving into spring clean-up.
Tips for a mindful spring cleanup
Hold off on spring cleanup until temperatures are consistently above 50ºF
Many beneficial insects and pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, begin to emerge from their winter dormancy as the weather warms up. Neatening up too early can disturb their habitats and disrupt their life cycles.
Check for houses while you clean up
Take the time to inspect your garden and yard for any signs of insect homes. Many insects are still using the leaf litter as a protective layer to keep warm, lay eggs, or hide from predators. Long stems might be a hideout for solitary bees, or could even have an overwintering butterfly chrysalis attached to it!
No-mow May
Delay mowing your lawn during the month of May to allow wildflowers and other native plants to bloom. These are essential first foods for insects coming out of hibernation. Imagine coming out of a months-long nap and not having anything in the fridge! Let's keep some snacks stocked for our hard-working pollinators!
Avoid leaf blowers/shredders
These can really disrupt insects as they're napping in the leaves! If you need to clear away leaves, we suggest you use an old-fashioned rake instead.
Some ideas to keep you busy while you wait...
Start some seeds indoors!
Check out our garden reading list
Prune your fruit trees and some shrubs (but avoid spring bloomers like azaleas and lilacs)
Make a list of your favorite native plants
Learn about your local pollinators
Take a walk through your garden and daydream
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