I’m pretty much over the bitter cold of winter in Knoxville this year. If you’re as ready for spring as I am, you’re in luck. You don’t have wait for spring-like weather to get started on work in your yard. Here are five things you could be doing now to get ready for a spectacular spring:

1. Clean up.

Use this month to clean debris such as leaves from plant and mulch beds. By doing so, you’ll clear the way for bulbs and perennials as they start to pop up out of the ground.

2. Prepare your tools.

This is a great time to take stock and do some maintenance on your yard and garden tools. Sharpen garden tools and mower blades and decide what new tools you’ll need for the season. My favorite tool is a mattock. It’s great for breaking up soil, digging trenches and cutting roots. They come in several set ups, usually with one side being an axe, pick or blade. You can find them in a hand tool size or larger yard tool.

3. Get inspired.

Now’s the time to get inspired about the outdoor projects you’ve been thinking about during the dreary months of winter. Check out our Pinterest page for inspiration or plan to visit Knoxville’s Dogwood House and Garden Show February 14-16. (We’ll be there (at booth #5004) so stop by and say hello!)

4. Design time!

Contact a landscape designer to plan for any projects you’re thinking about for spring and early summer. By planning ahead, you’ll be able to get on the schedule so your project can be built in a timely manner. The spring rush for Knoxville’s landscape designers and contractors will start in March and schedules will fill up quickly!

5. Start planting.

As the ground thaws, you can begin to plant woody shrubs and trees. Be sure to wait until the danger of frost is gone before planting annuals and more delicate plants.