Fall is a good time to “put away” your yard for the winter. We all like to have a well maintained yard. And nicely landscaped yards help maintain the appearance of our neighborhoods, improve security, and keep home values up. In fact, studies show that nice landscaping can increase the value of a home when it comes time to sell. Getting your landscaping chores completed before the busy holiday season will ensure that you have a safe and nice looking yard throughout the winter and give you plenty of time to focus on this fun-filled season. The cool weather of autumn even makes tackling these outdoor projects a little easier. Here’s your to do list for keeping an attractive yard even in those tough winter months.
Prune back overgrown shrubs around fences, doors, windows and curbs. Pruning back plants that grow near fences and curbs will create a tidy look for your outdoor spaces. Keeping bushes and shrubs from growing against the house or blocking windows will also improve security during the dark days of winter.
Mulch fallen leaves back into the grass with your lawn mower for a free fertilizer boost. Alternatively, you can bag leaves with your lawn mower attachment to use as mulch in flower beds or add to your compost pile. Never allow leaves to enter storm drains or ditches. Leaves and other yard debris are one source of nutrient pollution in our local waterways but can also form clogs in the stormwater system and contribute to street flooding.
Clean leaves and pine straw out of gutters and off roofs. With winter rains approaching, free flowing gutters will ensure no rainwater back-ups, which could lead to leaks around your lower roof and potential ice dam problems in freezing weather. Heavy accumulations of pine straw can weigh down roofs and contribute to roof leaks.
Store your rain barrel. If you use a rain barrel, be sure to empty it and move it into your garage or shed or flip it upside down before freezing temperatures arrive. Any water that freezes inside the barrel may cause damage to the barrel or fixtures.
Caulk and paint windows, doors, and trim. This will stop air leaks into the house and will ensure that wood trim doesn’t rot.
While many of us can do these chores ourselves, other folks may not have the time or ability to tackle them. What to do? Often, neighborhood teens are looking for odd jobs and may be able to do these projects for you. Or ask neighbors who they use for their lawn care and handyman services. Some churches, military units, and social organizations have programs to help with handyman services.
Blog post contributed by Karen Mayne. Karen is a biologist retired from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service who resides in Norfolk and enjoys writing about environmental issues.