The autumn and winter seasons might tempt homeowners to neglect their lawns, but one specialist is urging people not to store their gardening equipment away quite yet.
Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, shared advice on maintaining a healthy-looking lawn even as temperatures drop. Picture a lush lawn serving as the perfect setting for jumping into leaf piles, Halloween trick-or-treating, or enjoying morning coffee on the porch.
“Now that fall is just around the corner, our best advice is to just keep going,” said Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation. “Fall is a great season for getting outside with the more moderate temperatures and changing foliage but it’s also the time of year to prepare trees, shrubs, grass and gardens to better weather the colder months.”
He added: “Do not put your outdoor power equipment away just yet,” he advised. “Fall is the most critical season for your outdoor living room. What you do now will set the tone for what your yard will look like and how healthy it will be next spring.”
Listed below are Kiser’s five recommendations for preparing your yard for fall and winter. Additional lawn care guidance can be found in the organization’s International Backyarding Fact Book.
Develop an autumn yard maintenance schedule
As long as your grass continues growing, keep cutting it. Other essential tasks include aerating your lawn, overseeding, clearing out flower beds, pruning back perennials, and applying a fresh layer of mulch around trees and shrubs to shield them during the winter months.
Nourish your lawn, naturally
When autumn leaves drop, consider mulching them with your lawnmower rather than raking and discarding them. This approach not only prevents yard waste from entering the local landfill, it also returns organic matter back into the soil.
DON’T MISS…
Plant bulbs using the “Right Plant, Right Place” principle
Fall presents an ideal opportunity to plant many spring flower bulbs. Choose varieties that will flourish in your region by consulting the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.
By selecting the appropriate plants for your climate and lifestyle, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning and functional green space your entire family will enjoy year-round.
Welcome outdoor living (and working)
In many regions of the country, fall brings relief from sweltering temperatures and a chance to truly welcome outdoor living. Fall enables families to move even more daily activities like dining, studying, working, and relaxing outside.
Customize leaf peeping season
There’s no reason to battle the crowds to appreciate the fall foliage if you plant trees that transform color. Or you can witness the splendor of fall by taking a family stroll to a neighborhood park or natural area.
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