Spring is here! After months of cold and rain, it's time to refresh your garden. Whether you're caring for your patio, planting flowers and vegetables, or planning a landscaping project, this guide will help you get your outdoor space ready for the season ahead.

Landscaping & Garden Design

What is the best time of year to start landscaping?

Spring is the ideal season to begin landscaping projects! With longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, it's the perfect time to get outside and make those big changes you've been thinking about all winter. The soil is soft enough to start planting, making it easier to dig and shape your garden as needed. With plants emerging from dormancy, this is the perfect time to introduce new greenery, starting now will give everything time to settle before summer, so you can sit back and enjoy your outdoor space when the warmer months roll in.

How do you landscape a small garden?

Making the most of a garden is all about smart design. A small garden can still feel spacious and inviting with a few clever tricks, so don’t be afraid to experiment with layouts and textures to find what works best for your space. Use clever design tricks like raised beds, vertical planting, and light-coloured paving to make a small garden feel bigger. Keep it simple: less clutter, more impact!

What landscaping adds most value to a home?

A neat, well-maintained garden adds huge value. Features like paved patios, garden lighting, a tidy lawn, and easy-care plants are highly desirable. Investing a little time and effort into your garden now can pay off later, whether you're planning to sell or just want a more enjoyable outdoor space.

Paving & Patio Cleaning

What is the best method to clean your patio in the spring?

After a long winter, your patio might need a bit of TLC. Start by sweeping away leaves and dirt, then wash it down with warm water and a mild cleaner. Follow up with a gentle wash using a hose or pressure washer. A pressure washer can make light work of stubborn grime, but be careful not to damage delicate surfaces. For stubborn stains, use a cleaning solution that’s safe for your specific paving material.

When is the ideal time to clean your patio?

Early spring is ideal for patio cleaning, as the weather is warming up and any winter buildup of moss or algae is just beginning. Choose a dry day to ensure that the cleaning process is effective and that the surface dries quickly afterward, and your patio will look good as new.

How do you remove moss and algae from paving?

Moss and algae can make patios slippery and untidy. A simple trick is to use a diluted vinegar solution or apply a moss remover to the affected areas. Let it sit for a few minutes, then give it a good scrub with a stiff brush, then scrub with a stiff brush. Rinse thoroughly to wash away any residue, ensuring the surface is clear and clean.

What precautions should be taken during patio cleaning?

Always test your chosen cleaning solution on a small area first to avoid any damage. If using a pressure washer, adjust the pressure to a moderate level to protect the surface. Also, be mindful of nearby plants, cover them up or opt for eco-friendly products when possible.

How to maintain your patio after cleaning?

Once your patio is clean, consider applying a sealant (if recommended for your paving material) to help prevent future staining. Regular sweeping and occasional spot cleaning will help keep dirt and moss at bay. A little upkeep throughout the year means less work next spring!

Spring Planting & Gardening

What is the best thing to plant in spring?

Spring is great for planting flowers, shrubs, and vegetables. Hardy plants can go in early, while more delicate ones should wait until the risk of frost has passed. Spring also provides the perfect opportunity to plant a mix of annuals and perennials, ensuring that your garden remains vibrant throughout the season. Mixing perennials with seasonal blooms keeps your garden looking great all season round.

What are the best flowers to plant in spring?

For an instant splash of colour, go for daffodils, tulips, and crocuses early in the season. Later, plant lavender, roses, and petunias for summer blooms. A mix of flowers that bloom at different times keeps your garden looking lively for months. Additionally, planting flowers that attract pollinators, like lavender, can help support local wildlife and create a buzzing, healthy garden environment.

What vegetables are best to plant in spring?

Carrots, lettuce, peas, and radishes thrive in spring. If you have a greenhouse or warm spot, you can start tomatoes and peppers early for a head start on summer crops. Leafy vegetables like spinach and kale also do well in cooler weather, giving you an early harvest. Planting fast-growing veggies like radishes and lettuce will allow you to enjoy the fruits of your labour sooner.

Seasonal Garden Maintenance

How to prepare your lawn for spring in the UK?

A healthy lawn is the foundation of a great garden. Follow these simple steps to get yours in top shape:

Clear debris (leaves, sticks, and dead grass).

Mow lightly (don’t cut too short at first).

Scarify and aerate if needed.

Fertilise and overseed for lush growth.

With the right care, your lawn will bounce back from winter and stay lush all season long.

When should I clean up my garden?

March and April are ideal for a spring tidy-up. Clearing out weeds, trimming back shrubs, and refreshing flower beds now will set you up for a lush, healthy garden in the months ahead.

What to do in the garden in April in the UK?

Early spring is in full swing by April, and there's plenty to do to keep your garden looking great:

Plant flowers and veggies for summer.

Lay new turf or overseed patches.

Start weeding to stay ahead.

Feed plants to help them grow strong.

A little effort now will keep your garden thriving as the weather warms up.

How to Create an Eco-Friendly Garden This Spring

Sustainability is key in modern landscaping. Small changes can make a big difference. Here’s how to keep things green:

Choose Sustainable Materials: Opt for reclaimed sleepers, permeable paving, and Chain of Custody certified decking.

Encourage Biodiversity: Attract pollinators by adding native plants, wildflower borders, and water features.

Focus on Water Efficiency: Install rainwater harvesting systems and select drought-tolerant plants.

Minimise Waste: Plan projects carefully to avoid material wastage and work with suppliers like MKM who offer eco-conscious products.

A little effort goes a long way in creating a more sustainable garden!

How to Prepare a Spring Garden for Success

Spring is the season of renewal - help your clients’ gardens thrive with these preparations:

Assess the Space: Clear winter debris and check lawns, soil, and hardscaping.

Enrich the Soil: Add nutrient-rich compost or soil enhancers.

Install Hardscaping Features: Build patios, lay pathways, and install raised beds or retaining walls.

Plan Planting: Choose seasonal plants and trees, ensuring a mix of colours and textures.

Irrigation Systems: Inspect and repair irrigation systems to ensure efficient watering.

With MKM’s trade-ready stock, you'll find everything needed for a successful garden project.

Marketing Ideas for Landscaping Businesses This Spring

Spring is a great time to grow your landscaping business. Attract new clients and build relationships with these marketing ideas:

Showcase Projects Online: Share before-and-after photos on social media to inspire potential clients.

Offer Spring Discounts: Promote limited-time offers on services like patio installations.

Emphasise Eco-Friendly Solutions: Highlight your commitment to sustainability.

Build Partnerships: Collaborate with local nurseries or builders' merchants like MKM to boost referrals.

Request Reviews: Encourage satisfied clients to leave online reviews to build trust.

Why Tradespeople Trust MKM for Spring Landscaping Supplies

MKM is your trusted partner in landscaping success. Here's why tradespeople choose MKM:

Wide Range of Products: From driveways to decorative aggregates, we have everything you need.

Sustainability Options: Choose eco-friendly materials for modern landscaping projects.

Tool Hire Services: Access professional-grade equipment with flexible hire periods. Enquire online to see where is your clostest hire branch.

Expert Support: Our knowledgeable team is ready to assist with any landscaping challenge.

Fast Delivery: Get the supplies you need when and where you need them.

No matter the size of your project, MKM has everything you need to get the job done right.

Step Into Spring with Confidence

Whether you’re a professional landscaper or just love a bit of DIY, with free local delivery MKM has the materials and know how to help you bring your outdoor space to life. Visit your nearest MKM branch or shop online today to prepare for a busy season ahead.

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Carriage Bolt and Hex Nut, M8 x 100, 4 Pack