Although Ohio weather can be pretty unpredictable, there's no doubt subtle signs of spring are already in the air. The coming days will offer warmer temperatures, along with sunshine and showers. The backyard birds are chirping and upbeat. And even you may be feeling a little lighter as the seasons begin to shift, craving some time in nature and pops of color around your home. "This is the time of the year where you get excited, but not too excited, about gardening," joked Jason Veil, curator at the Secrest Arboretum in Wooster. As spring slowly starts to creep its way in, there are simple, proactive steps to take now to get your garden ready to thrive, local experts and long-time gardeners say.