With above-freezing and even warm weather in the forecast, the next few weeks will be an ideal time to get started on your yard and garden. Going outside and starting to collect the garbage, clear away debris from last season, rake those leaves and prepping your vegetable bed with compost is good exercise, makes you feel like you got something done, and will prepare you for planting — some of which can be done now. You may even have to do some weeding — the first weed of spring, henbit, is already coming on strong
Inventory your tools and pots, and make a list of what you need to buy or replace. While much is closed, garden centers are open to purchase your tools, seeds and soil amendments, pick up some pansies or violas to brighten up your windowsill, and get valuable advice on how to grow.
Peas, radishes, beets, collards, kale, spinach and lettuce can all be direct-seeded in the ground as soon as the soil can be worked — and with our mild winter, it can be worked right now. You can be eating those radishes in a little more than a month! All of those are easy to care for, and will add copious nutritional value to your diet. Healthier eating is good for your body, whether there’s a pandemic or not.