Prepare Your Garden for Spring: Zone 5 (Chicago Area)

February may still feel like winter in the Chicago suburbs, but for Zone 5 gardeners, it’s the perfect time to prepare your garden for spring success. At Perricone Garden Center & Nursery in Volo, IL, we know that early planning makes all the difference. From seed starting to pruning and garden prep, February sets the foundation for a healthy, productive growing season.

With over 25 acres of locally grown plants, trees, and shrubs, our family-owned garden center has been helping homeowners and landscapers succeed for decades. Our knowledgeable staff understands the unique challenges of Midwest winters and Zone 5 growing conditions, and we’re here to help every step of the way.

Plan Your Garden Before Spring Arrives

February is ideal for reviewing last year’s garden and planning improvements. Take time to decide what worked, what didn’t, and where you want to expand. Ordering seeds early ensures access to the best varieties suited for Zone 5 conditions, especially vegetables and flowers that benefit from an early start. This is also a great time to map out garden beds, raised planters, and landscape projects. If you’re planning hardscape additions like brick, pavers, or stone features, our team can help with design, material selection, and delivery.

Start Seeds Indoors for a Head Start

Many vegetables and flowers benefit from indoor seed starting in February, including onions, leeks, broccoli, peppers, and select annuals. Using quality soil, clean containers, and proper lighting helps produce strong, healthy seedlings ready for transplant once spring arrives. We carry everything you need: from seed-starting mixes and trays to fertilizers, all in one convenient location.

Pruning, Inspection & Winter Maintenance

Late winter is an excellent time to prune dormant trees and shrubs before new growth begins. Proper pruning improves structure, encourages healthy growth, and prevents future damage. February is also ideal for inspecting trees for broken branches, winter stress, or rodent damage. Our staff can advise which plants are safe to prune now and which should wait until later in the season.

Prepare Tools & Stock Up Early

Before spring rush hits, February is the perfect time to clean, sharpen, and repair garden tools. It’s also smart to stock up early on soil, mulch, seed, bulbs, and gardening supplies so you’re ready the moment planting season begins.

Why Shop Local in Zone 5? Prepare your Garden for Spring Success.

Plants grown locally are better adapted to our climate, soil, and weather extremes. At Perricone Garden Center, many of our plants and trees are home-grown right here on our 25-acre property, giving you better success rates and healthier landscapes.

Whether you’re planting a single tree or planning a full landscape installation, our experienced team is here to help with design, delivery, and installation, all at competitive pricing.