What to do in the Garden in April

Look after your lawn!
Fertilize it - follow the package instructions. Or spread 1-2 inches of fine compost or mulch over the grass after aerating if needed. The compost will quickly break down into the soil, providing a long lasting nitrogen source. Note that you may need to fertilize as well the first time you do this, as the nitrogen in the compost must be broken down by microbes in the soil to become available to the grass. Dig any perennial weeds before they set seed. If you have any muddy areas from walking on it in the winter, consider putting in a path or patio. Alternative, rake the area, add some compost, and spread grass seed thickly to cover bare patches. Water daily if it doesnt rain until established.

Prune Spring Flowering Shrubs
As soon as they have finished flowering, prune your spring blooming shrubs, like lilacs, magnolia, azaleas, etc. They set flowers on the new growth so if you wait till fall or winter, you'll be chopping off next Springs flowers!

Fertilize
Use a slow release fertilizer for trees and shrubs. You can also mulch with compost.

Prepare
Prep vegetable beds by adding compost, manure, and other soil amendments. If you have raised beds you can get started earlier. Don't work your soil if you can squeeze water out of a handful of it. If it holds together loosely, you are ok to work it. Once beds are ready, plant brocolli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, chard, chives, leeks, peas, radishes, rhubarb, spinach and turnips.