As the leaves change and the temperature drops, it’s time to improve the yard before winter arrives. Although leaving your lawn unattended for the fall season might seem tempting, taking the time to maintain and prepare your property will neaten the landscape and boost curb appeal. Here are a few quick, easy, and inexpensive fall landscaping tips to make your home’s outdoor space more visually appealing.
Tips for Fall Landscaping
1. Plant Fall-Hardy Flowers
Fall-blooming flowers like pansies and chrysanthemums come in an array of vibrant colors that will brighten flower beds and porch planters. These plants are low maintenance and not fussy about soil quality, making them perfect for beginner gardeners.
2. Remove Dead Leaves
The changing leaves are attractive, but dead leaves on the lawn can cause numerous issues. A thick layer of fallen leaves blocks sunlight and traps moisture, leading to fungal and bacterial diseases in the grass and garden beds. Rake the lawn and garden beds to remove fallen leaves. Mulch the leaves or add them to your compost bin.
3. Mow the Lawn
During autumn, grass growth slows; however, grass can still grow long and become matted, contributing to snow mold in the winter. Keep your lawn trimmed to between two and three inches until the first snowfall of the year to help it remain strong and healthy.
4. Add Mulch to the Garden Beds
Mulch helps the soil retain moisture, regulates temperature, and suppresses weed growth – all while enhancing the color and texture of your garden beds. Apply a fresh layer of mulch in the fall to protect your perennials during the winter and give the garden a neat, polished look.
5. Fall Landscaping: Prune Shrubs and Trees
Autumn is the perfect time to prune your trees and shrubs before winter storms and freezing weather arrive. Pruning keeps plants healthy by removing dead and diseased branches that might lead to pest and insect infestations. Pruning also creates a cleaner landscape for the upcoming winter season, and you’ll protect your property from falling tree branches and shrubs brushing into the siding during winter storms.
With these easy landscaping tips, you’ll keep the yard healthy, improve your outdoor living area, and prepare the property for winter. Tackle these tasks as a weekend project to make your home look attractive and boost curb appeal.
First Impression Home Inspections offers inspections to homebuyers and sellers in the Shenandoah Valley. Contact us to schedule our services.