Checklist for Fall Yard Cleanup
The cooler weather, changing colors of the trees, and Halloween decorations all signal that fall is in full swing, which means it’s time to take care of fall yard cleanup. In today’s post, we’ll take a look at 15 items you should make part of your fall checklist.
A1 Organics is Colorado’s leader in organics recycling and offers three convenient locations along the Front Range for your convenience. Be sure to bring your yard waste to the location nearest you to take advantage of our organics recycling services. Contact us today.
1. Clear Away Debris
Protect your lawn from a variety of pests by cleaning out fallen leaves and eliminating overgrowth from flower beds, pull the last of summer’s weeds, and trim back any overgrown shrubs or bushes.
2. Clean up Your Vegetable Garden
Once you’ve harvested the last of your vegetable garden, be sure to pull out all of the old plants, remove debris, and bring all of the organic matter to A1 Organics where we can turn your yard waste into rich compost that you can use during your next spring planting. Now is also a great time to add a 2 to 3″ layer of compost on the top layer of soil. This will provide slow release nutrients and microorganisms for an earlier spring boost.
3. Trim Dead Branches
With the leaves gone, you’ll be able to have a much clearer view of the branches that need trimming. Whether dead, damaged, or diseased, it’s important to eliminate these branches now, as they can cause trouble during winter due to breaking or falling under the weight of heavy snow.
4. Clean Out Gutters
What you can’t see can cause problems. You might be surprised how many leaves are in your gutters, which means you need to make sure they are cleaned out. Provide proper drainage for your gutters so they can handle all the moisture that’s sure to come. Recycle those leaves!
5. Dry Everything Out
You definitely don’t want to find yourself facing the cost of frozen pipes. With that, make sure to thoroughly drain water from all hoses, fountains, and drip irrigation systems. Store hoses inside in a dry place, and cover outdoor spigots.
6. Aerate
In Colorado, it’s important to aerate your lawn in the fall to help break up the soil and prepare it to receive the last water. Then top dress your lawn with STA Certified Compost to provide nutrients and microbiology for winter insulation and an early spring boost.
7. Feed Your Lawn
Fall top dressing with compost can encourage root growth, which will get your lawn off to a great start in the spring. Contact the professionals at A1 Organics to learn which type of STA Certified Compost is right for your lawn.
8. Rake and Mulch
Vibrant reds, mellow yellows, and muted plums all add to the beauty of this place we get to call home. Once the leaves have all fallen, rake them up so that they don’t trap in moisture and create mold or fungal problems for your lawn. We love leaves, recycle them at an A1 Organics Recycling Facility.
9. Prune Trees and Shrubs
Trim trees away from your house to avoid any damage they may cause during winter. In addition, this is a good time to prune any perennials that bloom in spring as you’ll be able to avoid damage to the blooms.
10. Mow One Last Time
Before you mow your lawn for the last time, adjust the blades to a lower setting so you can give it a close cut. Not only will this help your soil dry out more quickly in the spring but it will also put you on the path to a lush lawn.
11. Divide and Cut Back Perennials
Perennials that are thriving should be divided and added to other beds where they will do well. You’ll be able to enjoy your favorite spring-time plants in more than just one area without spending more money.
12. Protect Cold-Sensitive Plants
Protect cold-sensitive plants such as roses with a good layer of 2nd Chance™ mulch around the base. You’ll also want to wrap them up with a cloth barrier that can protect them from freezing. Something as simple as an old sheet or thin blanket will work.
13. Plant Spring Bulbs and Fall Annuals
While spring flowers may be the last thing on your mind, now is actually the perfect time to plant them. If you want to enjoy a little more color before everything goes dormant, try planting some pansies.
14. Protect Your Deck
If you have a deck, make sure you give it the TLC it needs to survive winter. Power wash the deck to remove any mold or mildew growth, and once it’s dry, add a weatherproofing stain. This will provide an extra layer of protection from moisture damage.
15. Clean Tools and Store Them
Make sure you clean all of your gardening tools before you store them in your shed or garage for the winter. Failure to do this could result in rusted damaged tools that will need to be replaced.
Landscape Supply Denver – Colorado’s Organics Recycler
Contact A1 Organics today to learn more about what we can recycle, and be sure to ask about certified compost and mulching services as well.