Five Things to Do in Your Garden this Memorial Day Weekend
Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial kickoff to summer—and the perfect time to give your garden and landscape a fresh boost. In the Midwest, especially here in Michigan, late May brings warmer temperatures, longer days, and ideal conditions for outdoor yardwork. Whether you’re prepping for backyard gatherings or just looking to enjoy your space, here are five productive (and satisfying) things to do in your garden this Memorial Day weekend.
1. Remove Weeds by the Root
Weeds are actively growing this time of year, and removing them now can save you time and trouble later in the season. The key is to pull them from the root so they don’t grow back. Moist soil makes weeding easier, so tackle the job after a rain or lightly water the area first. Use a hand weeder or garden fork for deep-rooted invaders like dandelions. Mulching after weeding can help prevent new ones from popping up.
2. Prune Your Shrubs for Health and Shape
Late spring is a great time to prune many shrubs, especially if they’ve finished blooming. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve air circulation and encourage healthy growth. For shaping, trim lightly and step back frequently to keep a natural form. Be cautious with flowering shrubs—some, like lilacs or forsythia, set next year’s blooms soon after flowering, so prune two weeks after they finish. Many plants are blooming later this spring with our cold wet Michigan spring so this weekend may be the perfect time.
3. Spray Weeds in Your Lawn
Now’s the time to take care of lawn weeds like clover and dandelions before they spread. Spot-spray broadleaf weeds using a selective herbicide that’s safe for turfgrass. Choose a calm, dry day when no rain is expected for 24 hours, and avoid mowing right before or after treatment to let the product absorb. Always follow label instructions, and consider a lawn care program to keep your grass thick and healthy, which naturally crowds out weeds.
4. Add Color with Annuals
Memorial Day weekend is one of the best times to plant summer annuals in Michigan. The danger of frost has passed, and the soil is warm. Pick up your favorite petunias, marigolds, or impatiens and fill containers, beds, or borders for an instant color boost. Be sure to water them in well and use a slow-release fertilizer to keep them blooming into fall.
5. Refresh Your Mulch
A fresh layer of mulch not only makes your beds look tidy but also helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Aim for 2–3 inches of mulch around your plants, but be sure not to pile it against the stems or trunks. Use natural mulch like shredded hardwood or bark that breaks down over time and enriches the soil.
Enjoy Your Long Weekend Outdoors
A little time in the garden this Memorial Day weekend goes a long way in setting up a healthy, beautiful landscape for the months ahead. Whether you’re weeding, pruning, or planting, now is the time to get your hands dirty and enjoy the fresh air. And if you need help with any of these tasks, the team at Reder Landscaping is here to support your outdoor goals.