Winterization is key to preserving the health and appearance of your lawn and garden. It prevents browning and decay and ensures the soil is ready for spring planting. If you’re unsure how to go about preparing for the oncoming cold, consider the following landscaping tips to provide the proper level of care.

4 Tips for Winterizing Your Lawn & Garden

1. Fertilize the Lawn

Grass roots require nutrients to make it through the winter months. Secure a soil-testing kit from a local garden center to measure the different levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and other nutrients in your lawn. Find a fertilizer that will restore nutrients, spreading it evenly to provide strength against the coming cold.

2. Rake the Leaves

If you let leaves sit in your yard for an entire winter, the moisture they retain will suffocate your lawn. Rake them up before freezing temperatures arrive to maintain airflow. You can either bag them for collection or shred them and add them to your compost pile.

3. Cover the Garden

Freezing temperatures impair the condition of your soil, causing the top layer to harden and killing off any delicate bulbs. Adding a layer of protection after removing end-of-season debris from the garden will ensure bountiful blooms come spring. Wood mulch and straw, which create  breathable barriers against the elements, are effective covers for a garden.

4. Water the Trees

Trees and shrubs need just as much protection as the rest of your landscaping in winter. Provide them with substantial amounts of water to last the winter. The moisture they retain will reduce the potential for root damage and ensure they remain healthy. Wait until they drop their leaves before soaking the soil directly around the base of the trunk.

Ensure your lawn is ready for winter by working with Oasis Landscapes & Irrigation of Columbia, MO. This locally owned company has been providing landscaping services since 1989. They specialize in lawn care and irrigation systems, utilizing cutting edge technology to maintain plant health and appearance. In 2019, they won kudos for best irrigation service and best lawn care by the Networks of Mid-Missouri Viewer’s Choice Awards. Learn more about their services by visiting their website, or call (573) 446-0858 to request a free quote.