While summer is ending, there are still many landscaping maintenance tasks you should complete before the end of the year. Specifically, fall is an excellent time to ensure that your lawn is healthy enough to survive the cold winter. Below are several strategies to remember.

How to Care for Landscaping in Fall

1. Aerate

With all the outdoor activity of summer, the soil around your home may experience compaction. When this happens, areas will have brown or thinning grass, as water cannot penetrate the soil.

However, aeration removes soil plugs to reduce ground stress and open up the area. This allows nutrients, sunlight, and water to reach the roots of the grass. The process also prevents thatch from accumulating.

2. Water

While there is less evaporation in the fall, you should still water your landscaping whenever it appears dry. This ensures that your plants receive enough hydration to prepare for winter. Try to provide at least one inch of water each week. If natural precipitation isn’t enough, use sprinklers or a hose to cover the area.

3. Mow

Grass continues to grow until the first frost hits, which is why you should keep mowing the lawn throughout the fall. If the blades get too long, you increase the risk of fungi and mold settling in your yard, which can kill the grass. Mowing can also assist with chopping up fall leaves, adding a natural mulch to your yard.

4. Rake

Falling leaves are a normal part of the season, and they can cover your lawn completely. However, this prevents the grass from getting enough sunlight for optimal growth. Leaves can also compact when you walk over them, creating a dark, moist environment that invites fungi to grow. This will break down organic material and can damage your grass.

5. Seed

If you notice bare spots in your yard, reseed the missing areas in the fall. A dense, lush lawn is better at stopping weed growth that can overtake your greenery. Fall conditions are perfect for producing a richer lawn because the ground is still warm and moisture levels are high enough to saturate the grass. The sun is also not as hot, so burning is less of a worry.

When you need help with landscaping maintenance this fall, call Arselli’s Landscape & Design. Located in Chillicothe, OH, this landscape design company offers everything you need to keep your property in top shape. From mulching to patio pavers and retaining walls, their expert team brings 25 years of experience to every project and will help you throughout the process. Call (740) 775-8177 to speak with a team member about your needs. Visit them online for more information about their services.