By Nick Linden - September 18, 2025
As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, preparing your landscape for winter is one of the most important steps in protecting your property and ensuring a healthy, vibrant spring. A little planning and proactive care now can prevent costly damage and keep your landscape in top condition year-round. Here are the key steps to get your outdoor spaces winter-ready:
Fallen leaves, branches, and dead plants may seem harmless, but if left unattended, they can harbor pests, mold, and disease. A thorough fall cleanup keeps your landscape neat and protects your grass, garden beds, and shrubs from unnecessary stress over the winter months.
Cool-weather root development is essential for a healthy lawn. Aerating allows water, nutrients, and oxygen to penetrate compacted soil, while fertilizing in the fall provides the root system with the nutrients it needs to survive the cold and bounce back strong in the spring.
Harsh winds, ice, and heavy snow can damage trees and shrubs. Wrapping delicate plants in burlap or installing tree guards helps shield them from weather and hungry wildlife. Pruning away weak or dead branches also reduces the risk of breakage.
Adding a fresh layer of mulch around trees, shrubs, and flower beds insulates roots and helps retain moisture. This barrier protects plants from sudden temperature swings and reduces the risk of frost damage.
Sprinkler systems and irrigation lines can easily crack if water is left inside. Draining and properly blowing out your irrigation system prevents costly repairs come spring.
Snow and ice are inevitable in winter, but proper planning can minimize damage. Mark driveways, sidewalks, and planting beds with stakes so snow removal crews know where to clear. Consider environmentally friendly ice melt to reduce harm to plants and turf.
Don’t forget to store garden tools, hoses, and outdoor furniture. A little organization now ensures you’ll be ready to enjoy your landscape again when warm weather returns.
Winter may be a time of dormancy for your landscape, but it doesn’t have to be a time of neglect. With proper preparation—cleaning, protecting, and insulating your outdoor spaces—you set the stage for a healthy, beautiful landscape come spring.