Taking care of your yard isn’t just about keeping things looking nice—it’s about working smarter, not harder. Every season brings different challenges, from falling leaves to overgrown grass and shifting temperatures. Whether you’re prepping for winter or getting your garden ready for spring, knowing what to do (and what to avoid) can make all the difference.
Do: Use a Leaf Blower for Efficiency
Raking leaves can be a never-ending battle, but a good leaf blower makes quick work of what would otherwise take hours. Instead of breaking your back with a rake, let a blower move piles efficiently. Just be mindful of noise regulations in your area—some neighborhoods have restrictions on when and how you can use them.
Don’t: Blow Leaves Into the Street
While it’s tempting to push leaves off your property and into the road, this creates problems for everyone. Clogged storm drains can lead to flooding, and wet leaves on the pavement can be a slipping hazard. Instead, collect leaves for composting or mulch them for your lawn.
Do: Mulch Leaves Instead of Bagging Them
If you’re looking for an easy way to improve your soil, skip the bags and mulch your leaves instead. Running them over with a lawn mower shreds them into small pieces that break down quickly, providing natural nutrients for your grass. It’s a simple step that reduces waste and helps your lawn stay healthy.
Don’t: Leave Thick Layers of Leaves Sitting on Your Lawn
A light layer of leaves can be beneficial, but letting them pile up too much can smother your grass and promote mold growth. If you don’t plan to mulch them, be sure to remove excess buildup before winter sets in.
Do: Adjust Lawn Care to the Season
Your lawn has different needs throughout the year. In spring and summer, focus on regular mowing, aerating, and fertilizing. In fall, switch to cool-weather fertilizers and overseed bare patches before winter. Seasonal care keeps your grass resilient no matter the weather.
Don’t: Cut Your Grass Too Short Before Winter
Many people believe that trimming grass extra short before winter helps, but it actually weakens the roots. Instead, keep your final cut at a moderate height—around 2.5 to 3 inches—to help your lawn stay strong through the cold months.
Do: Prune Trees and Shrubs at the Right Time
Proper pruning keeps your plants healthy and encourages growth. Late winter is the best time to prune most trees and shrubs because they’re dormant, which minimizes stress and helps them heal quickly. For spring-flowering plants, wait until after they bloom to avoid cutting off next year’s flowers.
Don’t: Over-Prune or Trim at the Wrong Time
Trimming too aggressively or at the wrong time of year can damage plants. Avoid heavy pruning in the fall, as it can stimulate new growth that won’t survive the winter. Also, cutting back too much at once weakens plants and makes them more susceptible to disease.
Do: Prepare Your Garden for Each Season
Garden maintenance isn’t just about summer flowers. In the fall, remove dead plants, add compost, and plant cover crops to enrich the soil. In spring, refresh mulch and start planting early crops. A little prep work ensures your garden stays productive year-round.
Don’t: Ignore Soil Health
Many gardeners focus only on plants, forgetting that healthy soil is the foundation of a thriving yard. Over time, soil loses nutrients, so be sure to test it occasionally and amend it with compost or organic matter as needed.
Do: Clean and Store Yard Tools Properly
After each season, clean your lawn mower, sharpen pruning shears, and store tools in a dry place to prevent rust. Taking care of your equipment extends its lifespan and ensures it’s ready when you need it.
Don’t: Leave Tools Exposed to the Elements
Leaving tools outside, especially in winter, leads to rust and deterioration. Always put them away after use, and consider oiling metal parts to prevent corrosion.
Do: Protect Plants from Extreme Weather
Sudden temperature drops, heavy snow, or scorching heat can damage plants. Use mulch to insulate roots in winter, and provide shade or extra water during hot spells to keep them healthy year-round.
Don’t: Use Too Much Fertilizer
More isn’t always better when it comes to fertilizer. Over-fertilizing can burn plants, promote weak growth, and even harm local water sources. Always follow recommended application rates and opt for slow-release or organic options when possible.
A Well-Maintained Yard Makes Every Season Easier
Seasonal yard work doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can keep your lawn, garden, and tools in top shape without unnecessary effort. A little planning goes a long way, and making smart choices now will save you time and trouble later.
