Finally that refreshing time of year again. Geese are returning,
days are lengthening, sap is flowing, buds are poised to open,
the sun is more intense, and the air smells of spring- earthy,
wet and warm. Cleaning up your garden in the spring requires a
little more caution than at other times of the year. Try to
tread as carefully as possible-you may compact the soil if it is
too wet and many plants can be set back significantly if their
growth is interrupted so early in the season. Plants may be slow
to emerge, especially if they are in the shade. Watch for the
pointed furls of hosta leaves poking through the soil, mulch, or
dense leaf litter. These furls of tightly wrapped leaves may not
extend to their full dimension for many weeks. If your hosta
needs dividing this would be a good time. Research Before You
Buy You may be tempted to buy the first appealing plants you see
at the nursery or garden centre. Instead, record their names and
do some research. Check the plants out with friends or
neighbours, in re