Steps to Take to Prepare for Winter.
The first cold blast of the season is often a stark reminder that winter is on its way. Aside from putting up holiday lights and decorations, there are a few steps you should take to make sure that your yard is ready for the next few months.
By now, most of the leaves have fallen from the trees. Make sure that these fallen leaves are not sitting in piles on your lawn. Some cities that allow you to rake them to the curb for pick up but another option is to mulch these. Doing so will let them decompose into the lawn. In the case of extremes amounts, use them for compost piles or mulching around plants to help protect them through the winter. Make sure your gutters are free from leaves. Free-flowing water help prevent ice dams from developing.
Now is also a good time to ensure all perennials are cut back and to dispose of any remaining leaves. A final cut of the lawn has been completed and certain shrubs have had their final pruning of the season. Various plants, such as hydrangeas, will have dried flower blooms that can be removed. Some people like the look of them through the winter, and they do provide a shelter for some animals. Ideally, roses are cut back to around 18”, or around half of their in-season height. Also, it may be worth protecting plants with barriers to protect them from snows drift and harsh winds.
Lastly, be sure to apply a fertilizer to your lawn. While this may seem counterintuitive, a fertilizer application at this time of year helps feed the lawn all winter long. Doing so helps it come out of the harsh winter months stronger, greener, and better able to fend off fungus such as snow mold.
You work hard on your landscaping throughout the year. Be sure to protect your investment of time and money by taking the necessary steps to prepare it for the cold winter months ahead. Contact us and see how we can help. http://www.morellandscaping.com
