As winter approaches, it’s time to give their yard some much-needed TLC before the colder months set in. Prepping your yard for winter will ensure your plants and lawn survive the harsh conditions ahead and that it will look great when spring arrives.
Here are some essential tips to get your yard winter-ready:
Fall Lawn Care
Your lawn is the foundation of your yard, so it deserves special attention before winter hits.
Consider aerating and overseeding your lawn in early September to improve soil drainage and invigorate your turf. After aeration, apply a winter fertilizer rich in potassium to strengthen the grass for the cold months ahead. Groundhog Turf Care can help with this!
Raking up fallen leaves will prevent them from smothering the grass and creating bald spots. Once the leaves are cleared, give your lawn a final mow, and cut the grass lower than you normally do. A low cut will prevent it from getting turf diseases like snow mold in the spring.
Tree and Shrub Maintenance
Trees and shrubs need some care too. Start by pruning dead or diseased branches, which can break under the weight of snow and ice, potentially causing damage to your home or other plants. For young or newly planted trees, consider wrapping the trunks with burlap or tree guards to protect them from frost cracks and hungry wildlife like deer or rabbits.
Mulching around the base of trees and shrubs is another excellent way to insulate the roots and retain soil moisture. A 2-3 inch layer of bark mulch should do the trick. Be careful not to pile the mulch directly against the trunk to avoid rot.
Winter Shrub Care Tips
For broadleaf evergreens, consider applying an anti-desiccant spray to help them retain moisture during winter. Protect your foundation plants by loosely tying the branches with twine to prevent them from splitting under the weight of accumulated snow.
Perennial Prep
Perennials can benefit from a little love before winter too. Cut back spent flowers and stems to about 1-2 inches above the ground to discourage pests and diseases from overwintering. However, some perennials, like coneflowers and ornamental grasses, can be left standing for winter interest and to provide food for birds.
Dividing overcrowded perennials is also a good idea at this time of year. Not only does it rejuvenate the plant, but it’s also an excellent way to expand your garden or share plants with friends.
Finally, add a layer of mulch around your perennials to help insulate the roots and protect them from temperature fluctuations. This will also reduce soil erosion during winter rains or snowmelt.
Finishing Touches
Here’s a few more tasks before the snow flies:
• Winterize your irrigation system (we can help!)
• Drain and store garden hoses
• Shut off your outside water spigots
• Clean and put away tools
• Stake your driveway with plow markers
• Protect outdoor furniture if you have any
And most of all, remember your feathered friends by putting out your birdfeeders and heated birdbaths!
Preparing your yard for winter might take some effort, but it’s well worth it. A little care now will go a long way in ensuring your outdoor space comes back vibrant and healthy next year. So grab your gloves, roll up your sleeves, and get your yard ready for its winter nap!