How to Prep Your Yard for Spring: Cleanups, Hauling, and More

After months of cold weather, rain, or even snow, your yard is probably in need of some serious TLC. Spring is the perfect time to breathe new life into your outdoor space—but jumping into gardening or landscaping too soon without a proper cleanup could do more harm than good.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to prepping your yard for spring—from cleanups and hauling to soil prep and smart planning.

Step 1: Do a Walkthrough and Inspect

Before you grab your rake or lawnmower, take a slow walk around your property. Look for:

• Broken branches, dead plants, or storm damage
  
• Piles of wet leaves or thatch buildup
  
• Signs of pests, mold, or standing water
  
• Fence, patio, or irrigation issues
  

Take notes so you know exactly what needs attention.

Step 2: Yard Cleanup 101

Winter leaves behind all sorts of debris. A clean yard sets the stage for healthy growth.

What to remove:

• Dead leaves and twigs
  
• Weeds and overgrowth
  
• Fallen branches
  
• Last season’s dead plants or annuals
  

Rake it all into piles for composting or bagging, and don’t forget to clear gutters and drainage areas while you’re at it.

Step 3: Schedule Yard Waste Hauling

Have more debris than your green bin can handle? This is where yard waste hauling services save the day.

What they can help with:

• Bulk removal of branches, leaves, and brush
  
• Disposal of old furniture, pots, or broken garden tools
  
• Clearing heavy items like rocks, logs, or fencing
  

Many companies offer seasonal cleanup packages—perfect for spring prep.

Step 4: Prune and Trim Back Overgrowth

Give your plants a healthy start by cutting away what’s no longer helping them grow.

• Prune trees and shrubs to encourage new growth
  
• Cut back ornamental grasses and perennials
  
• Remove any diseased or dead limbs (safely!)
  
• Shape hedges for airflow and sun exposure
  

Don’t overdo it—some plants bloom on old wood and may not need trimming right away.

Step 5: Prepare the Soil and Beds

Healthy plants start with healthy soil.

• Test your soil’s pH if you’re planning to plant
  
• Mix in compost or organic matter to enrich tired beds
  
• Remove weeds at the root to prevent regrowth
  
• Edge your garden beds for a clean, defined look
  

This is also a great time to lay down mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Step 6: Plan Your Spring Planting

Now the fun begins! Think ahead and choose plants that match your yard’s sunlight, soil, and water conditions.

Consider:

• Native plants (low-maintenance and drought-tolerant)
  
• Colorful blooms to attract pollinators
  
• Edible gardens (herbs, veggies, fruit bushes)
  
• Lawn reseeding or fresh sod if the grass looks patchy
  

Spring is all about setting a strong foundation for summer beauty.

Bonus: Don’t Forget Fire Safety

Spring is a great time to reduce fuel loads around your home:

• Clear dry brush, leaves, and overgrowth from fences and structures
  
• Trim tree branches at least 10 feet from your roof
  
• Keep grass trimmed short and watered
  

Especially important in areas prone to wildfires!

Spring Yard Prep Checklist

• Walkthrough and inspection
  
• Rake and remove winter debris
  
• Schedule junk/yard waste hauling
  
• Prune and trim plants
  
• Enrich and edge soil beds
  
• Plan and start planting
  
• Address any irrigation or drainage issues
  
• Ensure fire-safe landscaping
  

Your Yard Deserves a Fresh Start

Prepping your yard for spring isn’t just about looks—it’s about health, safety, and enjoyment. With a little effort now, you’ll save yourself time (and stress) later in the season. Whether you DIY or call in help for the heavy lifting, your outdoor space will thank you.

Need help with a spring yard cleanup or hauling? Reach out to a local team that specializes in seasonal maintenance. Spring starts with a clean slate—and a clean yard.