Since a hard frost is possible in Ohio, even into mid-late May, it's still a little too soon to plant new annuals. But, it's not too early to get things cleaned up in preparation for what's to come soon.

A productive, exciting growing season starts with tasks that are not glamorous, but oh, so necessary.

    - Go out to your beds and pick up the debris that has blown in from other people's yards.

    - Rake any quantity of leaves that have scattered across you yard, too. These can hold moisture against the grass during the spring rainy season that can lead to a host of fungal diseases.

    - Gather up fallen apples and similar tree debris that were not eaten by the birds, and take all of them to your compost pile.  While you're their, give the pile its first good turn of the season.

    - Go back to your beds and edge them with a power edger or sharp spade. 
 Check major plants - shrubs, etc. - for broken branches.  Gather these and any branches that have fallen in your yard and add them all to your kindling pile for the last fires of winter.

    - Now is also a good time to dig and divide any older established perennials that you didn't get to last autumn.  This is a task that should be done every three to five years so don't be surprised if it's time again before you know it. 
 If you're running out of space for all the plants, consider being a good neighbor and giving some away.  Check with co-workers and family, too.  If they aren't sure how to plant them, send them off to your favorite garden store for soil preparation instructions and tools.

    - Now, go to your garage or storage shed.  Did you get your mower tuned up and the blades sharpened last fall as you promised yourself you would?  If not, get it to the shop now before the rush so you are ready for the first cut of the summer - which could come at any time.

    - While you are in your garage or storage shed, make a list of tools that need to be repaired or replaced, and check your supply of fertilizers, pesticides, etc., so that you're prepared for the upcoming season.

Wondering what perennial will grow in a shady spot?  What plants attract butterflies and hummingbirds?  How do I start a compost pile?  Did you know a climbing rose needs your help?  Go to www.dehavenshowplace.com to find out these answers.  The website is full of information regarding lawn care, bugs, gardens, annuals, perennials, shrubs, etc.  Didn't find your answer on the website….you can e-mail the G-Man from the DeHaven's website.

Sources: www.buckeyegardening.com; www.dehavenshowplace.com