Spring is officially here — at least on the calendar. But if you live in Minnesota, you know we’re still in that in-between season where the snow is melting, the ground is still frozen, and the itch to get outside is growing stronger by the day.
At Urban Design Company, this is one of the most important times of year — because smart landscaping starts before the ground thaws.
Here’s what Minnesota homeowners can do right now to get a jump on the season and ensure their outdoor spaces are ready to shine when the weather catches up.
1. Start Planning Your Landscape Design Now
If you're dreaming of a new patio, fire pit, garden bed, or a full outdoor renovation — now is the time to start planning.
By scheduling a consultation in March or early April, you’ll:
- Beat the spring rush (our calendar fills up fast!)
- Allow time for permitting, design revisions, and material ordering
- Be ready to break ground as soon as conditions allow
Pro tip: Even if you’re not sure what you want yet, our design team can help you explore ideas based on your space, lifestyle, and budget.
2. Do a Post-Winter Yard Assessment
As the snow recedes, take a walk around your property and look for:
- Broken branches or storm-damaged trees
- Dead patches of lawn or exposed roots
- Frost heave or shifting in patios, steps, or retaining walls
- Drainage issues or pooling water near your foundation
Make a list of concerns or questions to bring to your landscape consultation. We can help assess damage and recommend fixes or upgrades.
3. Get a Head Start on Clean-Up
Even though it might still be chilly, you can:
- Remove any visible debris, leaves, and sticks
- Cut back perennials or grasses that weren’t trimmed last fall
- Clear out your garden beds and check mulch levels
- Wash off hardscapes with a hose or blower
This kind of prep work makes it easier for professionals to start when it’s go-time — and it gets your yard one step closer to spring mode.
4. Know When to Expect the Ground to Thaw in Minnesota
In most of Minnesota, soil temperatures reach workable levels in mid-to-late April, depending on how severe the winter was. Southern regions may thaw earlier, while northern or shaded properties may stay frozen into May.
That means March and early April are prime time for booking projects, not just dreaming about them.
5. Think Ahead to Planting Season
While it’s still too early to plant, now is a great time to think about:
- Which plants thrive in your zone (we’re in USDA Zone 4a–4b)
- Pollinator-friendly or native species
- Whether you’d like to add raised beds, trees, or foundation plantings
- Creating a phased plan if you’re working with a seasonal budget
Our team can design a planting plan that’s beautiful, low-maintenance, and perfectly timed for the Minnesota climate.
Ready to Make This Your Best Outdoor Season Yet?
Don’t wait for the last patch of snow to melt to start planning. The best projects happen when they’re designed thoughtfully — and early.
Let’s build your outdoor dream space.
Book a spring design consultation with Urban Design Company today and be ready to enjoy your yard the moment warm weather hits.