As the crisp autumn breeze starts to roll in, it's time to prepare your yard for the seasonal changes that lie ahead. Fall cleanup is essential to maintain the beauty and health of your outdoor space. To help you navigate this task efficiently, we've put together the ultimate fall cleanup checklist for homeowners looking to keep their yards tidy this season.
Step 1: Remove Large Debris
Before diving into the details, begin by clearing your yard's canvas. Remove any large debris, such as fallen branches or clutter, to create a clean slate for your fall cleanup efforts. This is a great time to think about where exactly you plan on putting the leaves once you do rake them. Most cities will allow you to bag them up and put them on the sides of the curb, however there are several other alternatives when it comes to collecting leaves, and ways to use these leaves.
Step 2: Battle of the Leaves
Raking : The quintessential fall task. Arm yourself with a reliable rake and start gathering those fallen leaves into neat piles. It's not just about aesthetics; a blanket of leaves can stifle grass and prevent sunlight from reaching the ground, thus damaging your lawn come spring. Additionally, If you live near a lake, you can also risk contributing to rising phosphorus levels in local lakes through water run-off when it rains.
Leaf Blower : For larger yards or when time is of the essence, a leaf blower can be a game-changer. Effortlessly clear your yard of leaves with the power of air, saving you time and energy. Another time these are very useful is when you have flower beds, or behind bushes where leaves get bunches up, or stuck in-between.
Step 3: Pruning and Trimming
Now that the leaves are under control, it's time to focus on your shrubs and bushes. Prune dead branches and trim overgrown foliage to encourage healthy growth and maintain a tidy appearance.
Step 4: Lawn Care
Mowing : Give your lawn one final trim before winter sets in. Adjust the mower blade to the appropriate height and mow in straight lines for a professional finish.
Aeration : Aerating your lawn allows nutrients and water to penetrate the soil more effectively, promoting healthier grass growth.
Step 5: Garden Bed Cleanup
Don't forget to tend to your garden beds. Pull out any weeds, dead plants, and debris to prepare them for the winter months. Consider adding a layer of mulch to insulate plant roots and prevent weed growth.
Step 6: Tool Maintenance
After the hard work is done, take some time to clean and sharpen your gardening tools. Properly maintained tools will not only last longer but also make your next yard cleanup more efficient.
Step 7: Final Touches
Gutter Cleaning : Remove leaves and debris from your gutters to prevent clogging and water damage to your home.
Outdoor Furniture Care : Clean and store outdoor furniture properly to protect it from the harsh winter elements.
Need some help with any of these tasks?
Luckily, Campus Hands is seasoned in all of the tasks we suggested you complete before winter sets in. If you would like some extra help, or an extra hand (or two), don't hesistate to reach out and book a home visit with us! We service within a 5 mile radius of Madison WI and Ann Arbor MI, two of the targeted ten BIG 10 Universities we would love to scale to.
Book your service here:
By following this comprehensive fall cleanup checklist, you can ensure that your yard remains tidy and well-maintained throughout the season. Embrace the cooler weather and vibrant foliage as you transform your outdoor space into a picturesque autumn retreat.
Remember, a well-kept yard not only enhances your home's curb appeal but also creates a welcoming environment for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Happy fall cleaning!
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