By Jessica Carlson 

Otter Tail County Master Gardener

I have been going outside on mild days this week and noticed that although winter is officially over, it has not left quietly. In fact, heavy wet snow can persist until late April, so we may not be done yet, though it won’t last long. 

It looks as though winter threw a long party in my yard, leaving behind an unwelcome mess. For example, there are now mysterious tiny trails across the lawn. Those winding paths are the work of voles, tiny rodents who spent the winter living their best lives beneath the snow, snacking freely, and redecorating my yard without permission. The good news is that their artistic contributions can be erased with a rake and some grass seed. If you notice the lawn is tight and patchy after the snow melts, chances are it is just snow mold, a minor problem that can easily be fixed. With a little light raking and overseeding, you’ll help your lawn bounce back, and soon enough, sunshine and rain will do the rest to make it look beautiful again.

I have noticed browning evergreen needles on my shrubs, especially those exposed to the sun and winter wind, which is classic evidence of winter burn. These plants have struggled to stay hydrated through freezing temperatures. I will hold off on pruning and give them water, fertilizer, and time to recover. Near driveways, the damage is often worse thanks to de-icing salt. If shrubs look crispy, deep watering can help wash away the salt. Once you see new growth, you can trim any damaged areas. And then there is the wildlife. If you find neatly clipped stems or bark that’s been nibbled away, it is a safe bet that your local rabbits and deer stopped by for a winter snack. You might want to consider adding some barriers next year if you’d rather not host their dinner party again. 

In your garden beds, you may find plants that seem to have tried to eject themselves from the cold ground. Frost heaving has pushed them upward, leaving roots exposed. This can be remedied by gently pressing them back into the soil, firming things up, giving them a drink of water, and reassuring them that this is, in fact, where they belong.

Despite the evidence, your yard is not in crisis, consider it a transition. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, these many issues are temporary and easily managed with basic care. So, take a deep breath, grab a rake, and embrace the process. Spring is here, your yard is on the mend, and with a little effort, everything will be back to looking good. Or at least good enough that the neighbors will stop staring.

For more information on diagnosing problems in the yard and garden visit www.apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/