If you’re anything like me, the first warm breeze of spring gets you dreaming about fresh flowers, green shrubs, and maybe even a few fruit trees in the backyard. There’s just something about this season that makes you want to start fresh and dig into something new.
I’ve been keeping an eye on what’s new at the Home Depot Garden Center this March, and let me tell you, they’ve brought in some beautiful new plants. From evergreens to colorful bloomers, the garden section is packed with life right now.
So I thought, why not pull together some of the best spring gardening tips based on what’s available and what actually works? Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your space, I’ve got you covered with simple advice, beginner-friendly plant picks, and smart ways to care for your garden this spring.
Best Home Depot Gardening Tips for Spring
If you’re planning to refresh your outdoor space, spring is truly the best time to start. With the weather warming up and the soil becoming easier to work with, this season gives your plants the best chance to grow strong and healthy.
One of my favorite Home Depot gardening tips for spring is to begin with evergreens and flowering shrubs. As long as the ground is no longer frozen, you can safely plant many of these and give them a head start. Dwarf Arborvitae, Blue Star Juniper, and Soft Touch Holly are all low-maintenance options that look great without needing constant care.
Thinking about adding a pop of color? Rhododendrons, magnolias, and knockout roses are perfect for spring planting. They’re not just pretty, they’re also tough enough to handle changing weather. And if you’re working with limited space, small fruit trees like dwarf apple or cherry varieties are surprisingly easy to manage.
Another smart tip is to group plants by their sunlight needs. Golden-leaved evergreens, for example, need full sun to keep their bright color. If you plant them in shade, they’ll likely turn green over time, which can be a bit disappointing. Reading the tags and planning placement ahead of time can save you a lot of trouble later.
When choosing what to plant in spring, think beyond flowers. Consider shrubs that provide structure, fruit trees that add value, and ground covers that help with weed control. Home Depot has a pretty good selection right now, and most of them are easy enough for beginners to handle.
Also, if you’re in Zone 6 and wondering whether it’s too early to plant evergreens like blue rug juniper, don’t worry as long as the ground has thawed and isn’t frozen solid, you’re good to go. These hardy plants can handle light frost, and early planting gives them more time to establish before summer heat kicks in.
Beginner-Friendly Spring Gardening Tips from Home Depot
If you’re just getting into gardening, don’t worry. You don’t need a green thumb to get started. The key is picking the right plants and giving them what they need without overcomplicating things.
One important tip is to always check the sunlight requirements. Some plants, like King’s Gold Cypress or Golden Joy Juniper, need full sun to thrive. Others, like boxwood or yews, can handle part shade just fine. Pay attention to spacing too. Many of the sizes listed on plant tags refer to how big they’ll get over the next 10 years, not just this season.
Watering is another big one. Newly planted trees and shrubs, especially Arborvitae, need consistent moisture to get established. Skipping this step is one of the fastest ways to lose a healthy plant.
And if you’re not sure where to begin, here’s a simple table that shows easy-to-care-for plants you can start with:
| Plant Name | Sunlight | Care Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dwarf Arborvitae | Full Sun | Low | Keeps round shape, no pruning needed |
| Soft Touch Holly | Part Shade | Low | Good boxwood alternative |
| Knockout Rose | Full Sun | Medium | Prune in late March for best blooms |
| Blue Star Juniper | Full Sun | Low | Great for borders and ground cover |
As you can see, you don’t need to go all out. Start with a few reliable plants, follow the sunlight and watering guidelines, and let nature do its thing.
If you’re planning to plant narrow shrubs like Sky Pencil Holly or Green Tower Boxwood along a wall, they can be a great option for tight spaces. Their root systems are generally non-invasive and won’t harm poured concrete foundations when planted just a few inches away. Still, it’s always good to allow a bit of airflow between the wall and plant to avoid moisture buildup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Spring Gardening
We all get excited when spring arrives, and it’s easy to rush into planting without thinking ahead. But a few small mistakes early on can turn your garden into more stress than joy.
One of the most common problems is planting too close together. I’ve been guilty of this myself. You pick up a few small shrubs thinking they’ll fill a spot perfectly, and by summer, they’re crowding each other out. Remember, most plant labels list their size based on how big they’ll get over the next 10 years not just this season.
Another issue is underwatering newly planted trees, especially Arborvitae. It’s tempting to assume a spring rain will take care of it, but new roots need consistent moisture to settle in. In fact, not watering enough is one of the fastest ways to lose a healthy plant.
Choosing the wrong location is also something to avoid. Sun-loving plants won’t thrive in the shade, and vice versa. If your golden evergreens like King’s Gold start turning green, they’re probably not getting enough light.
And here’s one I learned the hard way: fruit trees often need a pollinator. Some types, like apples, won’t bear fruit unless there’s a second compatible tree nearby. Peaches are usually self-pollinating, but it’s always best to double-check before buying.
Finally, don’t forget about deer. If you live in an area where deer like to visit, they can do a lot of damage overnight. Rhododendrons and other soft plants need protection, especially during the winter months when food is scarce.
Learning from these small missteps can help you grow a healthier, happier garden in the long run.
Helpful Spring Gardening Tips You Won’t Find on Plant Labels
Not every lesson in gardening comes from books or plant tags. Sometimes, the best spring gardening tips come from real experiences both the wins and the fails.
For example, one thing I didn’t know until recently is that Leland Cypress, while popular for fast growth, might not be the best choice if you live in a windy area. It’s prone to root rot and can tip over during storms. That’s the kind of stuff no one tells you when you buy it.
Another helpful insight? Some plants change color with the seasons. I would’ve thought my Fire Chief Arborvitae was dying when it turned bronze in winter, but it’s totally normal. If you know what to expect, you won’t panic when it happens.
And here’s one I wish I had learned sooner dwarf Alberta spruce can sometimes start sending out large, wild branches. It’s just trying to return to its original form. A quick prune can fix it, but only if you catch it early.
One of my favorite spring gardening tips came from watching someone plant blueberries. They’re not just for fruit; they look gorgeous through every season. If you give them full sun and the right soil, they reward you with blossoms, berries, and fall color all in one plant.
I also want to add an additional tip for those living in different regions. For those dealing with deer, it’s good to know that Yoshino cherry trees are not their top choice. While no plant is completely deer-proof, Yoshinos are usually left alone unless food is really scarce. Still, applying deer repellent in early spring and during the winter can help keep them safe.
Yoshino cherry trees typically bloom for about two weeks, depending on weather. Warm, sunny days tend to shorten the bloom time, while cooler temperatures can help the flowers last a bit longer. Either way, the display is always worth the wait each spring.
Why Spring Gardening with Home Depot is Easier Than You Think
Starting a spring garden might feel overwhelming at first, but it really doesn’t have to be. With just a little planning and the right advice, you can turn any yard into something you love coming home to.
One of the reasons I enjoy shopping at Home Depot in spring is how beginner-friendly their selection is. Whether you’re looking for low-maintenance shrubs, fruit trees, or just a pop of color with pansies or rhododendrons, there’s something for every skill level. Plus, their staff usually knows a thing or two if you need help choosing what works for your space.
I hope these Home Depot gardening tips for spring gave you a fresh way to look at your outdoor space. You don’t need to be a pro or spend a fortune. Just start small, learn as you go, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes that’s how the best gardens grow.
Happy planting,
Ashley 🌱