North Jersey gardeners urged to prepare for spring

Spring is almost here, and it's time to prepare your North Jersey garden. Arnie Friedman, a horticulturist from the Master Gardeners of Bergen County, shares tips on getting your outdoor space ready for the season. New Jersey's weather can be unpredictable. While it's warming up, cold weather can still hit, potentially harming budding plants. Friedman advises protecting them with anti-desiccant sprays or covering tender plants with burlap or plastic to shield them from cold snaps. Cleaning up your garden is important. Prune plants like roses and hydrangeas to promote healthy growth. Remove dead leaves or debris but avoid over-cleaning. Leaving some organic material can help enrich your soil. Before adding fertilizers, test your soil to understand its needs. Friedman suggests using the Rutgers Master Gardener Program to get your soil tested. For a small fee, you can receive a report detailing necessary amendments. For a lush lawn, consider using a tall fescue seed mix. These varieties require less water and stay green during hot weather. They are a better option than traditional bluegrass or rye. If you want to add new plants, start with pansies, as they can handle cooler temperatures. Perennials are also a solid choice, as they will bloom year after year. Visit local nurseries for seasonal plant options.