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Getting your yard ready for spring? Your walkway may not feel like a top priority, but it can actually make a big difference in your home’s curb appeal. After a long winter of snow, wind, and fallen debris, your space might be starting to look a little cluttered or neglected. The good news? With just a few simple steps, you can declutter your walkway before spring and create an entryway that feels warm and inviting. According to Angelika Zaber, a lawn care specialist and gardening expert at Online Turf, even basic maintenance goes a long way. From pulling weeds out of walkway cracks to clearing debris and organizing garden tools, these expert tips will help you declutter your walkway and boost curb appeal just in time for spring.
Pull Weeds From Walkway Cracks
Weeds popping up between stones or along the edges of your beds can make even the tidiest path look overgrown. If you’re dealing with only a few weeds, Zaber recommends gently pulling them out by hand. For bigger patches, she suggests this simple trick: “I personally really like to use boiling water and simply pour it onto the unwanted plants,” she says. “The boiling water ‘cooks’ the weed, causing it to become dehydrated rapidly and die. It will also ‘cook’ their roots most of the time, so they are not likely to come back.”
Store Tools and Planters Properly
Loose gardening tools and empty pots have a way of piling up near walkways. Where should you store them instead? “For the best results, I always recommend investing in a shed so that any items that are not used every day can be kept there,” Zaber says. If a shed isn’t possible, waterproof storage boxes or benches are a cheaper alternative.
Clear Porch Clutter and Old Decor
Your porch is often the first thing guests see, so it’s important to keep it free from clutter. “Start off by removing any non-decorative items, such as your work boots or gardening tools,” Zaber says. “If you have nowhere to put them and they need to be stored on the porch, consider investing in storage benches.” After decluttering, pressure-wash the area to refresh your space.
Remove Debris and Prep Walkways for Spring
Winter leaves, dirt, and debris can all trap moisture and lead to moss or algae growth. Zaber advises, “After winter, remove any debris that may have accumulated on your walkways.” Then, pressure-wash the area and check for cracks to prevent water damage and unwanted plant growth.
Maintain Walkways Year-Round
Decluttering once isn’t enough—doing it seasonally keeps walkways looking great. “In the summer, regularly sweep the area and treat any weeds before they establish properly,” Zaber advises. She also recommends leaf removal in fall and safe de-icers in winter to prevent ice buildup.
Create Clean, Defined Edges
Sometimes little tweaks can have big visual impact. Zaber recommends trimming bed edges and keeping walkway lines sharp to instantly make your yard look polished. “Creating defined edges along your walkway will make the space look well cared for and tidy. It’s a simple change that makes a massive difference.”
Tierney McAfee is a freelance writer and Country Living and The Pioneer Woman contributor who covers entertainment, holiday & entertaining, food & drinks, design ideas, DIY, and more.
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