Spring Cleanup Checklist: Preparing Your Landscape for the Growing Season

After months of winter dormancy, your landscape is ready to wake up and burst into life. But before you can enjoy the beauty of spring blooms and lush green growth, there's important preparation work to be done. At Vivid Landscape, we've helped countless homeowners transition their properties from winter slumber to spring splendor, and we know that proper spring cleanup is the foundation of a thriving landscape all season long.



Think of spring cleanup as an investment in your property's health and beauty. The time you spend now will pay dividends throughout the growing season, setting the stage for vibrant colors, healthy growth, and fewer problems down the road. Let's walk through our comprehensive spring cleanup checklist that will have your landscape looking its absolute best.

Start with a Landscape Assessment


Before diving into the physical work, take a slow walk around your property with a critical eye. Look for winter damage, note areas that need attention, and make a mental inventory of what's thriving and what might need replacement. This initial assessment helps you prioritize your efforts and ensures nothing important gets overlooked.


Check for broken branches, damaged hardscaping, areas where mulch has washed away, and spots where drainage might be an issue. Look for signs of pest damage or disease that may have developed over winter. This overview gives you a roadmap for the work ahead and helps you determine which tasks you can handle yourself versus which might require professional attention.

Clear Away Winter Debris


Winter leaves behind a significant amount of debris that needs clearing before new growth can flourish. Start by removing fallen branches, twigs, and any remaining leaves that have accumulated in garden beds and around the base of plants. These materials can harbor pests and diseases, and they prevent sunlight and air from reaching emerging plants.


Don't forget about less obvious debris like old mulch that has broken down completely, plastic plant protectors, and any temporary winter coverings you may have installed. Clean out gutters and downspouts while you're at it, as spring rains can overwhelm clogged drainage systems and cause water damage to both your home and landscape.


Pay special attention to areas around your home's foundation, where debris tends to accumulate and can create moisture problems. A clean foundation area also makes it easier to spot any winter damage to your home's exterior.

Prune Strategically and Thoughtfully


Spring pruning is one of the most important tasks for plant health, but timing and technique matter tremendously. The general rule is to prune spring-flowering shrubs immediately after they bloom, while summer-flowering plants can be pruned in early spring before they leaf out.


Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood first – this type of pruning can be done anytime and should be your priority. Look for branches that cross or rub against each other, as these create wounds that invite disease. Remove suckers from the base of trees and shrubs, and thin overcrowded areas to improve air circulation.


For roses, remove any dead canes and prune back to healthy, white pith. Most perennials benefit from having their dead foliage cut back to make room for new growth, though some ornamental grasses look beautiful through winter and should be cut back just before new growth begins.


Remember that not all plants need annual pruning. Over-pruning can be just as harmful as neglect, so research the specific needs of your plants or consult with professionals when in doubt.

Refresh and Replenish Mulch


Mulch is one of your landscape's best friends, but winter weather takes its toll on even the best mulching materials. Spring is the perfect time to refresh existing mulch and add new material where needed. Good mulch suppresses weeds, retains moisture, regulates soil temperature, and gives your beds a polished, professional appearance.


Before adding new mulch, rake and fluff existing material to break up any matted areas and improve its appearance. Remove any mulch that has become severely decomposed or developed mold or fungal growth. The ideal mulch depth is 2-3 inches – enough to provide benefits without creating problems.



Choose your mulch material based on your landscape's specific needs. Organic mulches like shredded bark or compost improve soil as they decompose, while inorganic options like decorative stone provide long-lasting coverage. Avoid piling mulch against tree trunks or plant stems, as this creates conditions for rot and pest problems.

Tend to Your Lawn's Spring Needs


Your lawn has specific spring requirements that differ from other landscape areas. Start with a thorough raking to remove thatch buildup and allow air and water to penetrate the soil. If you have significant thatch accumulation, consider professional dethatching services.


Spring is also the ideal time for overseeding thin or bare spots in your lawn. Choose grass seed varieties that match your existing lawn and are appropriate for your climate and sun exposure. Keep newly seeded areas consistently moist until germination occurs.


Consider soil testing if your lawn has been struggling. Many lawn problems stem from pH imbalances or nutrient deficiencies that are easily corrected once identified. Early spring fertilization can give your grass the boost it needs for vigorous growth, but timing and application rates are crucial for success.


If you're dealing with persistent lawn issues like moss growth, persistent weeds, or thin areas that don't respond to overseeding, it might be time to consult with lawn care professionals who can diagnose and address underlying problems.

Prepare Garden Beds for Planting


Garden beds need special attention in spring to create the ideal environment for new plantings and existing perennials. Start by gently removing any remaining winter protection from tender plants, but keep materials nearby in case of late frost warnings.


Carefully cultivate the soil around existing plants, being mindful of emerging bulbs and perennial shoots. Add compost or other organic matter to improve soil structure and fertility. This is also an excellent time to divide overcrowded perennials, giving you new plants for other areas while improving the health of the parent plants.


Edge your garden beds to create clean lines and prevent grass encroachment. Well-defined edges make your entire landscape look more intentional and professional. Consider installing or refreshing permanent edging materials if you're tired of constant re-edging maintenance.

Inspect and Service Irrigation Systems


If you have an irrigation system, spring startup requires careful attention to prevent costly damage and ensure efficient operation. Begin by slowly turning water back on to the system, checking for leaks, broken sprinkler heads, or damaged pipes that may have occurred during winter freezing.


Test each zone individually, adjusting spray patterns and coverage as needed. Clean clogged nozzles and replace any damaged components. This is also the perfect time to reprogram controllers for the changing season, adjusting run times and frequencies based on spring weather patterns and plant needs.



Even if you don't have an automatic system, check hoses, sprinklers, and other watering equipment for winter damage. Replace cracked hoses and broken connections before you need them for the growing season.

Plan for the Season Ahead


Spring cleanup isn't just about addressing winter's aftermath – it's also about preparing for the months ahead. Take time to plan your seasonal plantings, noting areas where you want to add color or fill gaps in your landscape design.


Create a maintenance schedule for the growing season, noting when different plants will need attention, when to apply fertilizers, and when to schedule professional services like deep watering or pest management treatments.



Consider any larger projects you want to tackle during the growing season, such as adding new garden beds, installing hardscaping, or updating your landscape design. Spring is the perfect time to start planning these projects, even if you won't execute them until later in the year.

When to Call the Professionals


While many spring cleanup tasks are well within the abilities of motivated homeowners, some situations call for professional expertise. Large tree pruning, especially near power lines or structures, should always be handled by certified arborists. Significant drainage problems, irrigation system repairs, and major landscape renovations are also best left to professionals.



At Vivid Landscape, we understand that your time is valuable, and we're here to help with any aspect of spring cleanup that feels overwhelming or beyond your comfort level. Whether you need a complete spring cleanup service or assistance with specific tasks, our experienced team can help your landscape reach its full potential.

Embrace the Season of Growth


Spring cleanup might seem like a daunting task, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it achievable and even enjoyable. There's something deeply satisfying about preparing your landscape for the growing season, knowing that your efforts now will result in months of beauty and enjoyment.


Remember that landscaping is a journey, not a destination. Each spring brings new opportunities to improve and refine your outdoor space. With proper preparation and care, your landscape will reward you with vibrant colors, healthy growth, and a beautiful environment for your family to enjoy throughout the growing season.



Ready to get started on your spring cleanup? Whether you're tackling the project yourself or looking for professional assistance, the team at Vivid Landscape is here to help you create the outdoor space of your dreams.

Outdoor patio with string lights, a grill, and a wooden pergola; evening setting.

Outdoor Lighting Design: Creating Ambiance and Security in Your Landscape

September 7, 2025
Picture this: you're hosting a backyard dinner party, the sun starts to set, and instead of everyone shuffling inside, your guests are actually more enchanted by your outdoor space. That's the magic of well-designed landscape lighting. At Vivid Landscape, we've transformed countless Southern California properties from basic yards into stunning evening retreats, and we're here to share what we've learned about creating outdoor lighting that's both beautiful and functional. Here's the thing about outdoor lighting—it's not just about slapping a few spotlights around your yard and calling it a day. Good landscape lighting is an art form that balances ambiance, security, and practicality. When done right, it can completely transform how you experience your outdoor space and significantly boost your property value. Let's dive into how to get it right. Why Outdoor Lighting Matters More Than You Think Before we get into the fun design stuff, let's talk about why outdoor lighting is such a game-changer. First and foremost, it extends your living space. That beautiful patio you invested in? With proper lighting, it becomes usable well into the evening hours. Your landscape investment suddenly works harder for you. Then there's the security aspect. Well-lit properties are statistically less likely to experience break-ins. Motion sensor lights near entry points, pathway lighting that eliminates dark corners, and strategic accent lighting all contribute to a safer home environment. But here's the kicker—security lighting doesn't have to look like a prison yard. With smart design, your security features can enhance your landscape's beauty. And let's be honest about curb appeal. A thoughtfully lit landscape at night is absolutely stunning. It creates depth, highlights your favorite plants and architectural features, and makes your home stand out in the neighborhood for all the right reasons. The Foundation: Understanding Light Layers Professional lighting designers think in layers, and your landscape should too. Think of it like interior design—you wouldn't light a room with just one overhead bulb, right? The same principle applies outdoors. Ambient lighting is your foundation layer. This provides general illumination and sets the overall mood. Think soft, diffused light that makes the space feel welcoming without being harsh. String lights, lanterns, or strategically placed uplights can create this base layer. Task lighting is all about function. This includes pathway lights that help people navigate safely, lights near outdoor kitchens or seating areas where you need to see what you're doing, and entry lighting that illuminates door locks and house numbers. Accent lighting is where the magic happens. This is your spotlight on that gorgeous Japanese maple, the subtle wash lighting on your stone wall, or the dramatic uplighting on your home's architecture. Accent lighting creates visual interest and highlights the features you're most proud of. Strategic Placement: Where to Put Your Lights The key to great landscape lighting isn't necessarily having more lights—it's about putting them in the right places. Here's what we've learned from years of lighting Southern California properties: Start with safety priorities . Light all pathways, steps, and changes in elevation. Nobody wants a guest taking a tumble because they couldn't see that step down to your patio. Use pathway lights or bollard lights spaced about 6-8 feet apart for consistent illumination without creating a runway effect. Highlight your home's architecture . Uplighting on interesting architectural features like columns, archways, or textured walls creates dramatic shadows and depth. Just remember—subtle is usually better. You want to enhance features, not blind the neighbors. Showcase your landscape stars . Got a specimen tree you love? A beautiful fountain? An interesting sculpture? These are perfect candidates for accent lighting. Use spotlights or uplights to make them nighttime focal points. Create gathering spaces . If you have a patio, deck, or outdoor kitchen, make sure it's well-lit for functionality but keep the lighting warm and inviting. Nobody wants to feel like they're eating under fluorescent office lights. Choosing the Right Fixtures and Bulbs With so many lighting options available, it's easy to get overwhelmed. Here's how to navigate the choices without losing your mind: LED is your friend. Yes, the initial cost is higher, but LEDs last significantly longer, use way less energy, and produce less heat. In Southern California's climate, that last point matters more than you might think. Plus, LED technology has come a long way—you can get warm, inviting light that doesn't feel cold or harsh. Consider fixture materials carefully. You're investing in something that needs to withstand weather year-round. Look for fixtures made from materials like brass, copper, or high-quality aluminum that can handle UV exposure without fading or cracking. Cheap plastic fixtures might save money upfront, but they'll cost you more in replacements and maintenance. Think about beam angles. Narrow beam lights (15-30 degrees) are great for spotlighting specific features. Wide beam lights (60+ degrees) work better for general area lighting. Medium beam lights (30-60 degrees) are perfect for lighting larger landscape features like groups of plants or sections of fencing. Color Temperature: Setting the Right Mood This might seem like a small detail, but the color temperature of your lights dramatically affects the feel of your outdoor space. Measured in Kelvin (K), color temperature ranges from warm (lower numbers) to cool (higher numbers). For most landscape applications, you'll want lights in the 2700K to 3000K range. This creates warm, inviting light that complements most landscape materials and doesn't feel stark or commercial. Save the cooler temperatures for security lighting where you need clear visibility over ambiance. Smart Controls: Making Your Life Easier Modern outdoor lighting doesn't have to mean walking around flipping switches every evening. Smart controls can automate your lighting, adjust brightness levels, and even change colors for special occasions. Timer systems are the basic starting point—set your lights to turn on at dusk and off at a specific time. Photocell sensors automatically adjust to seasonal changes in daylight. Smart home integration lets you control everything from your phone, set different lighting scenes for different occasions, and even adjust your lighting when you're away for security. Avoiding Common Lighting Mistakes After years of fixing poorly designed lighting systems, we've seen the same mistakes repeatedly. Here's what to avoid: Overlighting is probably the biggest mistake. More lights doesn't equal better design. Too much light creates glare, washes out the features you're trying to highlight, and can actually make your space feel less inviting. Pointing lights in the wrong direction. Lights that shine directly into windows, across property lines, or into gathering spaces create problems. Always consider where the light is going, not just what it's lighting. I gnoring maintenance access. If you can't easily reach your fixtures for bulb changes and cleaning, you won't maintain them properly. Plan for access when choosing locations. Choosing style over function. That gorgeous fixture might look amazing, but if it doesn't provide the light you need where you need it, it's not the right choice. Working with Professionals vs. DIY Some landscape lighting projects are perfect for DIY—think solar pathway lights or string lights for a patio. But more complex systems involving electrical work, trenching for wiring, and strategic design really benefit from professional installation. At Vivid Landscape, we often see homeowners who started with a DIY approach and then called us when they realized they needed more comprehensive solutions. There's no shame in that game—sometimes you need to live with a space to understand how you really want to use it. Professional installation also ensures your system is properly designed for expansion. Maybe you're starting with basic pathway lighting, but later you want to add accent lighting or outdoor speakers. A professional can wire the initial system with future additions in mind. Making the Investment Work for You Quality landscape lighting is definitely an investment, but it's one that pays dividends in multiple ways. Beyond the immediate benefits of extended outdoor living and improved security, good lighting significantly boosts property value. Real estate professionals consistently cite lighting as one of the top features that help homes sell faster and for better prices. Start with the essentials—safety lighting for pathways and entrances—then build your system over time. This spreads the investment across multiple seasons while letting you live with each phase and determine what you want to add next. Ready to Light Up Your Landscape? Great outdoor lighting transforms your property from a daytime-only space into a 24/7 extension of your home. Whether you're looking to create a romantic dinner setting, ensure safe navigation around your property, or simply showcase the landscape you've worked hard to create, thoughtful lighting design makes it all possible. At Vivid Landscape, we've helped homeowners throughout Los Angeles County, Orange County, and the Inland Empire discover the potential of their outdoor spaces after dark. From subtle pathway lighting to dramatic architectural illumination, we design lighting systems that enhance both beauty and function. Ready to see your landscape in a whole new light? Contact Vivid Landscape today for a consultation. Let's design an outdoor lighting system that transforms your property and extends your living space well into the evening hours.