Spring Awakening: How to Prepare Outdoor Space for the Season Ahead

As the first signs of spring begin to emerge—daffodils poking through the soil, longer days and the faint warmth in the air—it’s the perfect time to breathe new life into your garden and outdoor space. With a little planning and elbow grease, you can create a welcoming haven that’s ready for relaxing afternoons, weekend barbecues and everything in between. From firing up the BBQ to refreshing your outdoor furniture, here’s your complete guide to spring prep.

1. Clean and Tidy Your Outdoor Space

Before diving into new projects or planting schemes, it’s important to start with a thorough clean-up. Winter weather can leave your garden looking a little worse for wear, so begin by:

• Sweeping patios and decking to remove moss, leaves and debris
  
• Cleaning down fences, gates and garden structures with soapy water or a pressure washer
  
• Removing weeds and dead plants from flower beds and borders
  

If you’ve had a greenhouse or shed, give those a spring clean too—clear out old pots, scrub glass panels for maximum light, and tidy up tools and supplies.

2. Refresh the Lawn

Your lawn might be looking a little patchy or soggy after winter. Rake away thatch and moss to help air circulate, then aerate the soil using a garden fork. Apply a spring lawn feed to encourage healthy green growth, and if necessary, reseed any bare or thin patches.

Hold off on the first mow until the weather has warmed up a little, and when you do, set your mower blades high to avoid stressing the new growth.

3. Get Your BBQ Ready

Warmer evenings mean one thing—barbecue season is on the horizon. Whether you’re working with gas or charcoal, now is the time to:

• Give your BBQ a deep clean, removing ash, grease and old food remnants
  
• Check for rust, cracks, or damage and make any necessary repairs
  
• Clean grill plates with a wire brush or soak in warm soapy water
  
• Refill gas bottles or stock up on charcoal and firelighters
  

A well-maintained BBQ not only works better but also enhances the flavour of your food—and gets you one step closer to those long, lazy al fresco dinners.

4. Refresh Garden Furniture

Outdoor furniture can suffer in the cold and wet, so bring your pieces back to life with a good clean. Wipe down wooden furniture with a damp cloth and apply a protective wood oil if needed. Plastic and metal pieces can be cleaned with warm soapy water.

Cushions and soft furnishings should be aired out, washed (if safe to do so), or replaced if they’ve become mildewed. Consider investing in a few new pieces to elevate your comfort—perhaps a hammock with stand for laid-back lounging, or a couple of foldable chairs for flexible seating.

5. Create a Planting Plan

Spring is the time to start sowing and planting, but a little planning goes a long way. Think about:

• Colour schemes and plant groupings
  
• Which areas get the most sun or shade
  
• Mixing annuals and perennials for longevity
  
• Layering heights for visual interest
  

Popular spring flowers include pansies, primroses, tulips, and daffodils—all of which add instant cheer. For vegetables, consider early starters like carrots, radishes, lettuce and broad beans.

6. Tend to Containers and Hanging Baskets

If your containers were left out over winter, now’s the time to refresh them. Remove old compost and give pots a clean before replanting with spring blooms or herbs.

Consider creating themed containers—perhaps a culinary herb pot with rosemary, thyme and chives, or a trailing flower display with petunias, violas and ivy.

7. Add Some Cosy Touches

Spring evenings can still be chilly, so think about how to make your space feel cosy and welcoming. String up some fairy lights or solar lanterns for gentle illumination, and keep a basket of throws or outdoor blankets to hand.

Add outdoor cushions or a rug to a seating area to create a snug spot to unwind. A fire pit or chiminea can extend your outdoor enjoyment well into the evening hours.

8. Install or Repair Garden Features

Now’s a good time to make improvements to your space. Whether it’s installing a new trellis, repainting your shed, or refreshing raised beds, these finishing touches make a big difference.

If you’ve always dreamed of a water feature, bird bath or garden mirror, spring is the ideal time to introduce one. These small details help make your garden a true retreat.

9. Encourage Wildlife

Welcome nature into your garden by planting pollinator-friendly flowers and herbs, like lavender, borage, and echinacea. Clean out bird feeders and nest boxes, and leave a shallow dish of water out for birds and bees.

Avoid using harsh chemicals—natural methods like companion planting and introducing ladybirds can help keep pests at bay while supporting biodiversity.

10. Set the Mood for Outdoor Living

As your garden begins to flourish, think about how you want to use the space. Do you want a quiet reading nook, a dining area for guests, or a play space for kids? Organise your layout around these ideas, using planters, screens or trellises to create zones.

Investing in a foldaway parasol, weather-resistant rug or even a garden bar can turn your space into an extension of your home—a place to relax, entertain, and soak up every last drop of sunshine.

Prepping your garden and outdoor space for spring doesn’t have to be daunting—in fact, it’s a rewarding way to shake off the cobwebs of winter and reconnect with your surroundings. By tackling these steps one at a time, you’ll set the stage for a season full of colour, comfort and joy.

So grab your gloves, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to welcome spring in style.