Fall is the time of year to set up your yard for success in every other season. From simple grass clipping and garden fertilizing to more labor-intensive chores that require trash service—like branch removal and gutter cleanup—check out these fall maintenance tasks to get your yard on track for spring.

How to Maintain Your Property Through Fall

1. Remove Dead or Diseased Branches

Trimming trees in the fall prevents any diseased or rotting branches from collapsing once the snow piles on this winter. Cut close to the trunk, but not directly against it, as this could cause more damage to the tree. When trimming bigger branches, you may need to make several cuts or get the help of a professional.

2. Prune Perennials

Pruning keeps your perennials healthy when the next blooming season rolls around. Cut the stems back, leaving only 2 to 4 inches, and dispose of the clippings. You can also divide the perennials and place them in other flower beds as a way of saving money and time in the spring.

3. Rake Leaves

They may look pretty, but letting dead leaves pile up on your lawn can promote mold growth and prevent grass sprouting in the spring. It’s easiest to rake them in the early fall when they’re still dry. If you have a significant amount of leaves, reach out to a trash service for proper disposal solutions.

4. Cut Grass Shorter

As the weather gets colder, cut your grass a little shorter. A rule of thumb is to maintain approximately 3 inches of height. When grass remains long, it can be exposed to disease or even acquire mold when snow begins to fall. If you have hard leaves on the ground, you can also mow these into your lawn for extra nutrients.

5. Clean Out the Gutters

While your gutters aren’t part of the lawn, they play a significant role in maintaining the integrity of your house. Because rain and snowfall increase with the cold weather, keep the gutters clear of leaves and other debris. This ensures proper drainage all year long.

If you’re doing fall maintenance on your property, rent a small trash container or dumpster for your debris. Contact Rocket Disposal & Greer Port-A-Potty Services, an experienced waste management company in Rushville, IL. Their team will deliver to your location and pick it up when it’s full. Serving the community for more than 30 years, they specialize in portable toilet rentals, trash service, and roll-off container rentals. Call (217) 322-6310 to reserve a trash container, or visit them online for more details.