It looks like it might be rainy for April, in West End Toronto.
What activities, if a gardener doesn’t mind wearing rain gear while outside, can one carry out while it’s raining? I find rain invigorating, but I know from your gardening guide that I shouldn’t dig. My garden is peonies, roses, hostas, phlox, irises, and a front lawn. Thank you.
Thanks for contacting Toronto Master Gardeners. It is indeed a rainy April here in Toronto. Many of us share your enthusiasm and eagerness to be in the garden at this time of year. However, with the ongoing rain and, ultimately, wet soil, it’s a good idea to stay off of the lawn and out of the garden until they have had sufficient time to dry out. Walking on wet soil/lawn can negatively affect soil structure just as digging can, and both activities contribute to soil compaction. We know how tempting it can be to want to forge ahead, but perhaps you can enjoy some indoor activities that will satisfy the gardener in you. Starting seeds, attending plant sales, planning out new areas of the garden on paper, and cleaning garden tools are just some ideas to get you through this wet weather. With any luck, in a few weeks, we will be in the throes of gardening season and this cool wet weather will be a distant memory.
If you feel so inclined, here are some resources to check out:
Starting Seeds at Home (University of Maine Cooperative Extension)
Planning a Vegetable Garden (University of Maryland Extension)
Plan now for a beautiful flower cutting garden (Michigan State University Extension)
Maintaining Lawn and Garden Tools (University of Wisconsin Extension)