It’s that time of year again! But just because the temperatures outside have started cooling down doesn’t mean your yard work is done for the season. Here are a few tips to help prepare your yard for winter.
Rake and Mulch All Leaves
Raking and/or mulching all of the leaves in your yard prior to the season’s first snowfall is so important to the health of your grass. When leaves are left throughout your yard, they suffocate the grass beneath them, especially when they are also covered with snow. For any leftover leaves, run them over with a quick pass of your lawn mower.
Get Rid of the Weeds
Weeds can take over your yard no matter the season, so make sure you’ve pulled everything out before winter hits. If necessary, resort to weed killer to get the job done. You can also lay down some weed and feed in your yard to prevent additional weeds from growing and to make your life a little easier come spring.
Clean Up All Debris
Throughout the summer, your yard has likely accumulated branches from trees, leaf piles, and other scattered debris. Cleaning it all up for the last time before winter is a good idea.
Move Plants Indoors
While this isn’t always possible, you should try to bring any potted plants from your deck, porch, or other areas of your yard into the house before the first frost. Many outdoor plants can thrive indoors; it’s just a matter of watching them closely and tending to their needs.
Give Your Grass One Last Cut
Your yard isn’t growing nearly as quickly as it was all summer long, but cutting it one final time before winter is a good idea. This ensures your yard is in shape for the spring. In addition, make sure you edge your yard with a Weedwacker or similar tool. It’ll prevent grass from spreading into your driveway and other areas you don’t want it.
Put Equipment Into Storage
Any furniture, cushions, lawn equipment, tools, hoses, etc., should be brought to a covered location such as a garage or shed. Leaving these items out all winter long can negatively impact their durability.
Preparing your yard for the winter months isn’t an easy job, but it will benefit you in the long run. These cleanup tips and tricks are a great starting point to ensure your yard is in tip-top shape.