March in Southwestern Ontario is the bridge between winter and spring. Snowbanks start to shrink, the sun feels warmer, and the urge to get outside grows stronger. This month is all about preparing for the busy season ahead, checking structures, booking services, and setting the stage for a productive spring.
This guide focuses on Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton, Ancaster, Dundas, Milton, and Brantford. You will find targeted tips for homeowners and a dedicated section for commercial properties. Do what you can now so your landscape wakes up healthy and ready to thrive.
Residential Homeowners
Lawn and Garden Prep
Book Spring Cleanup Services: Secure a spot with a trusted provider for spring clean up services before schedules fill. This often includes debris removal, first mow, and edging.
Rake and Clear Debris: Gently rake matted grass and pick up branches. This prevents mold and gives lawns a head start.
Inspect Garden Beds: Remove lingering leaves from perennials and check for frost heave on newly planted shrubs.
Hardscapes and Surfaces
Check for Frost Heave: Walk patios, walkways, and driveways. If you notice raised or uneven pavers, mark them for repair. Consider upgrading to permeable pavers for better drainage and long-term stability.
Inspect retaining walls: Look for leaning sections, cracks, or displaced blocks. Early repairs can prevent bigger issues during spring rains.
Irrigation and Drainage
Test Your System Early: If your irrigation system is above ground or partially exposed, check for visible leaks or cracks from frost damage.
Assess Sump Pump Discharge: Ensure downspouts and sump lines are clear and direct water away from the foundation.
Planning and Design
Book Your landscape design: If you have a vision for an outdoor kitchen, spa, or new patio, finalize plans now. Crews for landscape construction book quickly for spring and summer builds.
Explore backyard landscaping ideas: From compact seating nooks to full garden overhauls, this is the month to align your ideas with your property layout.
Curb Appeal and Entryways
Plan a front yard landscaping refresh: Even before planting season, you can plan entryway updates like new walkways, feature lighting, or structural plantings.
Repair Winter Wear: Check stairs, porch rails, and exterior lighting for damage before guests arrive for spring gatherings.
Estate Property Care
Review Maintenance Contracts: Large properties may benefit from full-season or landscape maintenance agreements. This ensures consistent care from spring through fall.
Commercial Properties
Safety and Accessibility
Inspect All Walkways and Parking Areas: Mark and schedule repairs for any trip hazards or damaged concrete caused by freeze-thaw cycles.
Drainage Review: Standing water from melting snow can turn to ice overnight. Plan grading adjustments or consider permeable paving in problem areas.
Landscape Planning and Upgrades
Book Spring Projects Early: Whether you manage retail plazas or office complexes, securing your commercial landscaping partner now ensures your property is ready for the season.
Design with Purpose: Review your property’s landscape design for traffic flow, outdoor seating, and visibility.
Maintenance Contracts
Secure Annual Service Agreements: From routine lawn care to seasonal plantings, getting your landscaping contractor booked early means consistent care all year.
Coordinate Spring Cleanups: Lock in spring clean up services to remove winter debris and prepare planting beds.
Branding and Appeal
Plan Seasonal Planting Displays: Eye-catching entry beds and container arrangements can draw attention and improve tenant satisfaction.
Review Signage Landscaping: Make sure shrubs or trees haven’t grown to block important signage over winter.
Ontario Notes for March
Weather and Timing
March in Southwestern Ontario can bring anything from a blizzard to a sunny 12°C afternoon. Be ready to shift between winter checks and spring prep.
Permits and Lead Times
If you’re planning a pool, deck, or structural landscaping feature, review local bylaws now. Pool permits in Burlington can take weeks, so the earlier you start, the better.
What to Tackle First
Focus on safety and structural inspections while the ground is still firm. Then, prioritize design and booking work so you’re at the front of the spring schedule.
March Landscaping Tips
March is the month to think ahead. Light yard work, inspections, and booking spring clean up services set the stage for a smooth season. It’s also your window to finalize landscape design and lock in your preferred landscaping contractor before spring rush begins.
