It's time for green thumbs to start getting dirty, now that the warmer spring temperatures have arrived in the region. Solomon's Home, Garden, Gift owner Jim Solomon says while you may want to hold off on planting the more fragile varieties of plants, there's no reason you can't get out in the garden and get your hands dirty.

"Everybody's starting to get out and cut the lawn, so now is the time to get started. We still have to watch for frost, usually the May long weekend is what we consider the last time for frost. Definitely perennials that are tough, people can be out digging, dividing, planting trees and shrubs if they're not leafed out. If they are leafed out you just need to cover them for fear of frost."

He says while things are still gearing up at their greenhouse, he's anticipating another strong year for those coming in looking to plant vegetable gardens. Solomon explains that with a growing interest in where food comes from, they're seeing more and more people planting vegetable gardens.

"People want to grow their own so they know where it comes from. Everybody's very aware of natural and organic, and getting away from insecticides, pesticides, and that kind of thing. People want to know more how they're food is produced. With growing your own vegetable garden, you know exactly how that's done, and it's fresh, it's at-hand, and it's fun."

He says the best tip for gardeners is to focus on how you're planting, as the type of soil can make all the difference, especially when it comes to transplanting.

"We always say dig a $50 hole for a $5 tree. Make the investment to begin with to enrich the soil. Whether you're using compost, bone meal, or a high phosphorous fertilizer to enrich the soil, just put a little bit of investment into the effort when it comes to the planting method."

Meanwhile, Solomon says those hoping to keep up with the latest gardening trends should be aware the colour of the year for flowers is lavender-pink.