Embracing a No-Snow Winter: Preparing Your Garden and Yard for Spring

Winter without snow is a rare occorance in these parts, but it's becoming a worrying reality. Today was a day to start parting with the meticulusly put up Christmas lights, carefully being put away for another 10 months. I couldn't help but be sad at the realization of lost memories not being made with my kids, and the environmental impact now looming in the absence of this years non-existant snow.

Years back, with the help of our tractor, we were able to make an enormous snow pile in the field for my oldest and his friends. They would spend hours in the fresh air flying up and down the hill, to their hearts content. Now, the youngest doesn't have that privilege, only up at the ski hill when we have a chance. I feel like snow days are a right of passage for children and those that miss this, miss out on a slice of childhood greatness!

One of my favorite things about our place is the countless blue spruce. The air, ambiance and peace they create all by themselves is heavenly. My worries soon shift to these as the water they would have gotten from the snow, no longer exists. These 21 year old trees are not easily replaced. Are there plants, tree or something on your homestead or yard that causing this inner panic for you as well?

Today, was the first sun-filled day this year that I remember, and it was glorious. Mood lifted, happy thoughts, these thought turning to the impending work that needs to be done before spring can officially arrive.

The Great Awakening - Spring time

My spring prep is always based on the sun. Sounds logical yes. What I mean is, there has to be an awakening day. A day filled with magnificent rays of unapologetic sunshine blasting though the windows in the house. This is a day that awakens the yearning to get things started outside.

Lights taken down, I can focus on a hard clean up of the yard. This means raking leaves, picking up fallen branches, and clearing out any debris that accumulated over the colder months. Since the ground can still be frozen in parts not in direct sunlight, tackling these "surface"chores is easy, without worrying about muddy patches or compacting soil.

Here are some tips I follow:

• Use a sturdy rake to gather leaves and twigs before they start decomposing and smothering grass.

• Check gutters and downspouts for blockages to prevent water damage during spring rains.

• Inspecting property fences for damage from the winter and animals. Garden beds for foundations or structures needing fixing before planting and outdoor furniture for repairs or maintenance to enjoy your summer space.

• Check on your composting of organic waste area to ensure it is ready to enrich soil later in the season.

  
  

This early yard prep sets a solid foundation for the gardening season ahead.

Planning the Garden While the Ground is Bare

With no snow covering the earth, I can already see the layout of my garden beds and start planning what to plant. This is a crucial part that I enjoy the most: imagining the rows of vegetables, herbs, and flowers that will soon bring life and colour back to my space.

How I get started:

• Review last year’s garden journal to note what worked and what didn’t.

• Order seeds/bulbs early to avoid delays when planting season arrives.

• Start seedlings indoors for crops that need a longer growing period.

• Sketch a garden map to rotate crops and improve soil health.

  
  

Planning ahead helps me avoid the rush and stress that often comes with spring planting. It also allows me to think about companion planting, pest control, and soil amendments well before the first seed hits the ground.

Seed packets and garden planning notes ready for spring

Soil Preparation Without Snow Cover

One of the biggest benefits of a no-snow winter is the chance to start soil prep early. Normally, I wait for the snow to melt before turning the soil. This year, I can begin loosening the earth, adding compost and locally sourced manure. Enriching the soil with as many nutrients in the beginning and letting it balance out before introducing and plants.

Here’s how I approach soil prep during a mild winter:

• Your choice to test soil content and moisture, depending on what you are planning to plant.

• Spread a layer of organic compost & well-rotted manure to boost nutrients.

• Use a garden fork or tiller to aerate the soil gently. This will help reveal any weeds starting up.

  
  

Starting soil work early means the garden beds will be ready for planting as soon as the weather warms up. It also gives beneficial soil organisms a head start to wake up and begin their work.

Preparing Tools and Equipment

Spring gardening requires well-maintained tools. I use the winter to clean, sharpen, and oil my garden tools. This prep saves time later and prevents damage to the branches when cutting.

My checklist includes:

• Sharpening pruners, shovels, and hoes.

• Cleaning dirt and rust off tools.

• Checking hoses and irrigation systems for leaks.

• Organizing seed trays, pots, and garden markers.

  
  

Having everything ready means I can focus on planing, planting and tending the garden without having to constantly stop to find/fix/clean.

Garden tools cleaned and organized for spring use

Looking Ahead to a Productive Gardening Season

As I learn to adjust to the ever-changing weather, it has also given me a chance to rethink how I approach prepping for spring. Without the usual snow melt, I can start early, work steadily, and avoid the last-minute time crunch that often comes with traditional seasons.

For fellow homesteaders and gardeners, this means:

• Taking advantage of mild weather to get a jump on yard work.

• Using the extra time to plan and organize for a successful gardening season.

• Being flexible and adapting to changing weather patterns, taking into account a variety of plants.

  
  

The garden is a living project that responds to care and attention. Starting early with thoughtful prep makes a big difference in the harvest and enjoyment later on.

If you’re experiencing a similar no-snow winter, embrace it as an opportunity! Take down those lights, clean up the yard, and start dreaming about your garden. The season ahead is full of potential, and your early efforts will pay off in fresh fruits & veggies, beautiful flowers, and a thriving homestead.

Happy Garden Prepping!