As summer comes to a close, it’s time to start thinking about prepping your yard and landscape for the fall season. While it may not be as exciting as planting flowers and enjoying the warm weather, properly preparing your yard for fall can ensure a healthy and vibrant landscape.
Here are some tips and tricks for getting your yard ready for autumn:
Clean Up Fallen Leaves
Cleaning fallen leaves is one of the most critical tasks when prepping your yard for fall. Leaving them on the ground can smother your lawn and create an environment conducive to pests and diseases. Rake up leaves and dispose of them in a compost pile, or use them as mulch for your garden.
Cut Back Perennials
As the temperatures drop, it’s time to cut back your perennials. This will help promote healthy growth next season and prevent disease and pests from overwintering in dead plant material. However, some seed heads should be left for birds and other wildlife to enjoy during the colder months.
Plant Fall Annuals
Just because summer is over doesn’t mean you can’t have some color in your yard. Consider planting fall annuals such as mums, pansies, and ornamental kale to vibrate your landscape. These plants are hardy enough to withstand colder temperatures and will add a pop of color to your yard.
Aerate and Overseed
Fall is the perfect time to aerate your lawn, especially if it sees heavy foot traffic during the summer months. Aerating allows oxygen, water, and nutrients to reach the grassroots, promoting healthy growth. Additionally, overseeding can help fill any bare spots caused by summer stressors such as heat or pests.
Fertilize
Giving your lawn one last dose of fertilizer before winter hits can help promote root growth and ensure a healthier lawn come springtime. Be sure to use a slow-release fertilizer that will provide nutrients over an extended period.
Trim Trees and Shrubs
Pruning trees and shrubs in the fall can help promote healthier growth and reduce the risk of heavy snow or ice damage during winter. Be sure to remove any damaged or diseased branches and any that are crossing or rubbing against each other.
Clean Out Gutters
While not directly related to your yard, cleaning out gutters before fall sets in is essential. Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling around your home’s foundation, potentially causing damage. Plus, clearing them out now will save you from having to do it when it’s freezing outside.
Protect Your Plants
If delicate plants or shrubs are susceptible to cold temperatures, consider protecting them with burlap or other coverings. This will help prevent frost damage and keep your plants healthy throughout the winter.
By properly prepping your yard for fall, you’ll not only have a healthier landscape come springtime but also save yourself from potential headaches and costly repairs. So before saying goodbye to summer, take some time to give your yard some TLC and enjoy a beautiful lawn all year round.