What the Coronavirus Means for Your Yard

If you're like me, it's been almost impossible the past few weeks to open the news, read an email, or even have a conversation without being reminded of the coronavirus. Now that the World Health Organization has officially labeled the outbreak as a pandemic, it's looking like COVID-19 will continue to dominate the news for the near future. As you strive to stay healthy and deal with these uncertain times, here are a few tips for keeping busy around your home and yard- just in case you find yourself unable (or unwilling!) to leave your house for a bit.

Get those hands dirty (but not germy!):
One of the best projects for your yard this time of year is to make final preparations for any spring planting or gardening you'd like to do. At my house, we're starting a vegetable garden, and have started sprouting seeds in anticipation of warmer weather being just around the corner. So far, we have tiny cherry tomato, beefsteak tomato, roma tomato, heirloom bell pepper, watermelon, and lavender seedlings starting to emerge. Soon, they'll be ready to move into the ground, raised beds, or planter boxes. The time is now to prep your containers, spread gardening soil and/or manure, and maybe even start a compost bin! 
An added benefit to a backyard garden- if the virus does end up affecting the availability of fresh food, maybe you'll have a little bit of an advantage with your own private stash of delicious produce!

Keep it clean:
General cleanup- it's never anybody's favorite spring task, but it's a necessary one. Now is a great time to pressure wash any outdoor surfaces that are looking dingy, and brush those lingering cobwebs off of the house. You'll also want to get those flower beds weeded and rid your yard of any remaining sticks and leaves that are hanging around. I always like to keep a small pile of brush and leaves in the back corner of our yard. It provides raw material for solitary bees in need, is a great source of kindling for a backyard bonfire, and who knows- if toilet paper actually does become unavailable, it might come in handy to have an ample supply of large leaves on hand! Hah!

Creating a (private) oasis:
It may seem obvious, but if you're going to be stuck at home, it might as well be an enjoyable place to be! Nothing alleviates a case of cabin fever like soaking up the sun and enjoying the sounds of nature. Get out those patio chairs, wash the cushions if need be, and wipe down the grill and tables. Consider setting up a bird feeder, a patio fountain, or a fragrant herb garden. Create a space where you can eat, reflect, or maybe even invite over a (healthy! :P) neighbor for a drink or two.

All kidding aside- with any luck, we can all be hoping that the virus threat will dissipate sooner rather than later. But if you do end up housebound for one reason or another, hopefully these tips can help make it a little more bearable! In the meantime, stay well, and enjoy these beautiful spring days we're having!

Additional Resources

Planting Annuals vs Perennials

How to Plant in Clay

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