As the cooler months approach, it’s the perfect time for winter prep for your landscape. Proper maintenance can keep your outdoor space looking great year-round and protect your investments. At Mountain Road Landscaping, we’ve helped homeowners in the Poconos and Lehigh Valley prepare their landscapes for the colder months for over 20 years. Here are some essential tips to ensure your landscape thrives through winter.
1. Rake Up Fallen Leaves
Fallen leaves might look picturesque, but they can cause trouble for your lawn if left unchecked. A layer of leaves can suffocate grass, prevent sunlight, and encourage mold growth. It’s important to rake or mulch the leaves regularly. Not only does this keep your lawn healthy, but it also helps prevent pests from taking up residence over the winter.
2. Winterize Your Irrigation System
Winterizing your irrigation system is essential to avoid freezing pipes and broken sprinkler heads. Drain your irrigation system and blow out any water to prevent damage. If you’re unsure how to do this, reach out to a professional like Mountain Road Landscaping to ensure it’s done correctly.
3. Prune Trees and Shrubs
Fall is the ideal time to prune trees and shrubs. Pruning helps remove dead or weak branches that could break under the weight of snow or ice, causing damage to your trees. It also allows new growth to develop in the spring. When pruning, always use sharp, clean tools, and cut at the correct angle to promote healthy regrowth.
4. Prepare Your Lawn for Dormancy
If you haven’t already, it’s time to overseed your lawn. Applying a layer of seed and fertilizer now gives your grass a chance to grow and establish roots before winter sets in. This ensures that come spring, you’ll have a lush, green lawn. Additionally, you can also apply a winterizer fertilizer, which will help your grass survive the cold months and start strong when spring arrives.
5. Protect Your Hardscapes
While hardscapes like patios and walkways don’t require the same care as plants and grass, they still need attention. Pressure wash your pavers and walkways to remove dirt and debris that can build up. Consider applying a sealant to protect your hardscapes from the freeze-thaw cycles of winter. This will help prevent cracks and discoloration due to snow and ice.
6. Cover or Move Potted Plants
If you have potted plants outside, be sure to either move them indoors or cover them. Many outdoor plants are not winter-hardy and can die from frost or freezing temperatures. If bringing them inside isn’t an option, you can insulate the pots with burlap or wrap them in frost cloths. This can help protect them from the harsh elements.
7. Mulch Around Your Plants
Adding a layer of mulch around trees, shrubs, and perennials helps insulate the roots from freezing temperatures. Mulch acts as a blanket that keeps the soil temperature stable, preventing frost from damaging the roots. This simple step can protect your plants and give them a better chance of surviving the winter.
8. Take Care of Your Lawn Mower
Don’t forget about your lawn mower! Before storing it for the winter, clean it thoroughly, change the oil, and empty the gas tank. This ensures that your mower will be ready to go when spring comes around, and you won’t have to worry about any maintenance issues when the grass starts growing again.
Taking the time now to winterize your landscape will help ensure that your outdoor space is well-protected and ready to flourish in the spring. At Mountain Road Landscaping, we’re here to help you with everything from lawn care to hardscaping, so you can enjoy your property without worrying about the winter elements. Contact us today to schedule your fall maintenance and get your landscape prepped for the season ahead!
Contact Us for Winter Prep
Ready to get your landscape ready for winter? Reach out to Mountain Road Landscaping today for expert help with everything from tree trimming to hardscape maintenance. We proudly serve homeowners throughout the Poconos and Lehigh Valley. Contact us today to get started.
By following these steps, you’ll help ensure that your landscape stays healthy and beautiful all year long. Don’t wait—winter is coming, and the time to act is now!
