Spring is here. Even before the calendar makes it official, a heavy dusting of yellow pollen on every surface in Charleston lets us know Mother Nature is shaking off winter and sprouting forth.

And while the pollen might have us itching our noses, it also has us itching in a good way as we’re eager to get outdoors and start working in our yards and gardens. If your yard could use a serious springtime spruce up, you might want to consider enlisting the help of a Charleston landscape designer. Professionals can assist you in making the best use of your space and give you tips on which plants do best in this Lowcountry climate (meaning plants that will survive heat and humidity).

Here are three things you can do now to get your yard ready for a new season:

1. Add pre-emergent weed killer and beat those pesky weeds before they take over your yard.
2. Compost and mulch your flower beds. This is a good time to feed that soil so it’s ready for spring plantings. And mulch will hold in moisture so those forthcoming April showers can produce May flowers.
3. Inventory your gardening supplies and equipment. Ensure mowers and weed eaters are in good working condition. Has that bag of soil in the corner of the garage seen better days? Are the pruning shears rusted? Get a jump on equipment maintenance so you’re not frustrated when you get ready for a day in the yard.

Certainly give some thought to your Charleston Spring Garden and how you want to fill in those flower beds. It can be tempting to buy up all the beautiful flowers at the gardening center but make sure you’ve assessed your needs. If you have a shady yard, those full-sun plants won’t be happy. And if you have a busy schedule with little time for watering, consider hardy plants and succulents.

Here are a few local resources to help you in your planning:

• Tri-County Master Gardeners Association
• The Garden Club of Charleston
• Charleston Horticultural Society
• Charleston Parks Conservancy
• Clemson Extension Home & Garden Information