The forecasters can’t seem to agree on whether March is coming in like a lion or a lamb. Finding consensus about weather is tricky because our memories can be so subjective. But you’d be correct if you believe that it has been a very dry winter. While the 9 inches of rain is right on point with the October through February average of 9.2, we’ve only accumulated 27.5 inches of snow. The seasonal average is over 40 inches. It has been an odd winter temperature-wise as well, with a warm October and November, followed by those very cold stretches in December and January. But that’s weather in Wisconsin for you. If you don’t like it, wait a day or two. Or 20 minutes. It’s sure to change dramatically.

And the gorgeous weather earlier this week meant that every gardener we speak to is super anxious to get started. The Plant Desk had to post a sign last weekend with our motto for the coming weeks, “Stay Calm.” We know that you’re itching to get into the garden. If the predicted warming trend pans out, please check the moisture level in your soil before you begin planting anything in the garden. You can do this by gently squeezing a handful of earth into a ball. Then lightly tap the soil ball or poke it with a finger. If it breaks into smaller pieces, it is ready to work. If it falls apart in large chunks or stays in a solid ball, it is much too wet. Wait a few days and try again. When you’re establishing new planting areas, take the time to work in a couple of inches of compost or leaf mulch. The added organic material will improve drainage for years to come.

As temperatures really begin to moderate, you can start to harden off seedlings of your cool weather crops by placing them outside on the nice days and bringing them in at night. Onions, leeks and any members of the cabbage family fall into this group. And don’t forget that these tender plants need to be acclimated to the stronger sunlight, as well as to the temperatures, so start the process in a spot that is sheltered from mid-day sun and strong spring breezes.

And what about your lawn? Some of them look pretty terrible right now. Take a wait and see attitude. As areas begin to green up, think about applying an early spring fertilizer. Remember that growing grass necessitates mowing grass, so tune up your mower and get the blades sharpened. Ragged mower cuts will damage the grass plants and cause discoloration. In fact, it isn’t a bad idea to sharpen all of your cutting tools, from hand pruners to chainsaws. If you applied a lot of salt this winter, liberally flush the areas at the edges of driveways, sidewalks and roadways to wash it out of the soil.

Be careful about uncovering perennials and tender shrubs. Remove mulch and last year’s dead foliage a bit at a time. There’s still a lot of time for some hard freezes. And walk through your garden every few days. You’ll be amazed at how fast it changes. We’ve spotted already some early spring bloomers popping up in south facing beds.  The cycle of the seasons continues.