Homeowner Tips: Preparing Your Lawn and Garden for Fall

As the crisp air settles in and the leaves begin to fall, it’s time for Andover homeowners to turn their attention to preparing lawns and gardens for the coming season. A little extra care now can make a world of difference come spring, ensuring your yard stays healthy, vibrant, and ready to bloom again when the weather warms up.

1. Give Your Lawn Some Love
Early fall is the perfect time to fertilize your lawn, helping grassroots grow strong before winter. Aerating the soil can relieve compaction and allow water, nutrients, and oxygen to reach the roots. Don’t forget to keep mowing—just gradually lower your mower blade as the season progresses, but never cut more than one-third of the grass height at a time.

2. Clean Up and Compost
Rake up fallen leaves and spent plants, but don’t just toss them! Add them to your compost pile for nutrient-rich soil next year. Removing debris also helps prevent pests and diseases from overwintering in your garden beds.

3. Plant for the Future
Fall is an ideal time to plant spring-blooming bulbs like tulips and daffodils. It’s also great for adding new trees and shrubs, as cooler temperatures and moist soil help roots establish. Water your new plantings well and add a layer of mulch to protect them from harsh winter weather.

4. Protect Perennials and Delicate Plants
Cut back perennials after the first frost and divide any overcrowded plants. For delicate flowers or shrubs, consider covering them with burlap or mulch to shield them from freezing temperatures and wind.

5. Prep Tools and Plan Ahead
Clean and store garden tools, hoses, and outdoor furniture to prevent rust and damage. Take a moment to jot down what worked well in your garden this year—and what you’d like to try next spring. Planning ahead makes gardening even more rewarding!

With these simple steps, you’ll set your lawn and garden up for success, and enjoy a beautiful outdoor space all year round. Have questions or want to share your own fall prep tips? Leave a comment below or reach out—I’m always happy to help fellow Andover homeowners make the most of every season!