It’s almost fall! While we’re enjoying those great fall months before winter sets in, there are a few steps for yard care that can make all the difference in the spring. It’s also a good time to plan for winter projects that may slip by while were holed-up during those colder months. But it’s not bad out today. So grab a pen and something sturdy on which to write. The Steps for Today will be out in the yard.
Now is the time to take a good look at the grass. Are there patchy spots. I know my yard has some. Giving them some seed and fertilizer to work over the winter will help produce a beautiful lawn in the spring.
- Over seeding is best done early in the fall, when the ground is still warm. If over seeding, it’s best to get the seeds into the soil if possible. Raking with a hard tooth rake before and after application will help them make their way to the soil.
- If the ground is really bare, remove any debris and apply a quarter-inch of soil over the seeds.
- Dormant seeding can be done late in fall. But as the name indicates, the seeds will lay dormant until spring.
- Both early and late fall are a great time to apply fertilizer. The heavy fall dew will help break down the fertilizer and feed the seeds.
- If you have seeded, it’s not a good time to apply weed control. The new seedling will most likely need till spring to get a good start.
- If you have a mulching lawn mower, mulching your grass and some leaves will apply a nutrient-rich protective blanking over the lawn during the winter.
- If you’ve got one, it’s time to schedule having your sprinkler system flushed for the winter.
- Late fall is also a good time to service your mower with a cleaning, sharpening and oil change.
All those wonderful leaves. Sure we don’t like raking leaves, but having a few trees in the yard sure is nice. Although winter is the best time to trim trees, it’s often a busy time for tree trimmers. Best to get on the schedule now.
- Examine trees for dead or damaged branches.
- Get on a tree trimmer schedule early. Get several estimates and opinions. Their prices can vary greatly. Be sure to have them look at the smaller trees for signs of stress as well. And be sure to ask for a copy of their insurance. Most will send it with the estimate. And always check the online reviews.
- Check for limbs getting too close to the house. They can tear up roofs, siding, or gutters quickly in a wind storm.
- As mentioned in my last post. Inspect gutters to ensure they’re working properly for the winter months.
Landscaping a water issues can become a real problem during the frigid winter months, when they become ice issues. Landscapers often offer discounts at this time of year for winter work, so now is the time to consider getting on their schedule.
I’m sure I’ve missed a few things. Any suggestions?
As always, thanks for reading and please share with others.
And remember to take the next step…
Mitch