How to Prepare Your Landscape for Winter

How to Prepare Your Landscape for Winter. As the crisp fall air settles into the Hudson Valley, and the vibrant autumn leaves begin to blanket the ground, it’s a clear sign that winter is just around the corner. For homeowners in the Westchester County area and beyond, this transitional period is the perfect time to prepare your landscape for the harsh winter months ahead. Taking the right steps now can ensure that your lawn, plant beds, woody shrubs, and other landscape features emerge healthy and vibrant in the spring. Here’s a comprehensive guide to from Maple Leaf Associates Inc. getting your landscape winter-ready.

Lawns

Your lawn is the foundation of your landscape, and proper care in the fall is crucial for its health during the winter and into the spring.

• Aerate the Soil: Aeration helps to break up compacted soil, allowing water, nutrients, and oxygen to reach the grass roots. This process promotes stronger root growth and prepares your lawn to withstand the winter months.

• Fertilize: Applying a high-potassium fertilizer in the fall strengthens grass roots and improves cold tolerance. Choose a slow-release formula to provide consistent nutrients throughout the winter.

• Mow Low: Gradually lower your mower height as the season progresses, with the final cut being shorter than usual. This helps reduce the risk of snow mold and other fungal diseases that can thrive in longer grass during the winter.

• Leaf Removal: While a few leaves can act as mulch, too many can smother your lawn, leading to bare patches and increased risk of disease. Regularly remove excess leaves to keep your lawn healthy.

Plant Beds

Plant beds add color and texture to your landscape, but they need extra care to survive the winter months.

• Mulch: Fluffing up or adding a light layer of mulch can assist in overwintering plants and creates a nice clean appearance for the winter.

• Cut Back Perennials: Many perennials benefit from being cut back in the fall, which reduces the risk of disease and encourages healthy growth in the spring. However, some plants, like ornamental grasses, add winter interest and can be left standing.

• Divide and Transplant: Fall is an ideal time to divide and transplant perennials that have outgrown their space. This allows them to establish roots before the ground freezes, ensuring a robust start in the spring.

Woody Shrubs and Trees

Woody shrubs are more resilient than tender perennials, but they still require attention to survive the winter without damage.

• Prune Carefully: Avoid heavy pruning in the fall, as this can stimulate new growth that won’t have time to harden off before winter. Instead, focus on removing dead or damaged branches to reduce the risk of breakage under snow and ice.

• Wrap or Cover Sensitive Plants: Some shrubs, especially those susceptible to winter burn, like boxwoods and hollies, benefit from being wrapped in burlap or covered with a protective barrier. This shields them from drying winter winds and sunscald.

• Water Deeply: Ensure that your shrubs are well-hydrated before the ground freezes. A deep watering in late fall helps the roots stay moist throughout the winter, reducing the risk of desiccation.

Other Considerations for Fall

In addition to caring for your lawn, plant beds, and shrubs, there are a few other key tasks to keep in mind as you prepare your landscape for winter.

• Inspect and Clean Gutters: Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and ice dams. Clean them out thoroughly to ensure proper drainage during winter thaws.

• Store Garden Tools and Hoses: Drain and store hoses to prevent them from freezing and cracking. Clean and store garden tools to extend their lifespan and have them ready for spring.

• Plan for Snow Removal: If you have a driveway or walkways, make sure you have a plan for snow removal. Consider marking the edges of pathways and garden beds to avoid accidental damage from snow blowers or shovels.

Preparing your landscape for winter is a crucial step in maintaining a beautiful and healthy outdoor space. By taking the time to care for your lawn, plant beds, and shrubs, you’re investing in the long-term health of your landscape. When the snow finally melts and spring arrives, your hard work will pay off with a lush, vibrant garden ready to burst into bloom.

Remember, if you need professional assistance or advice on winterizing your landscape, Maple Leaf Associates Inc. at (845) 526-2024. Our team has experience in crafting just about any type of outdoor escape, and we proudly serve residents throughout Putnam County, NY, offering landscaping, lawn mowing, and tree planting services