Fall is an important time for maintaining your lawn and garden in Somerville, NJ. Here is a checklist of tasks to help you prepare your property for the winter months:
Rake up and remove any leaves, twigs, and debris from your lawn and garden. This will help to prevent pests and diseases from taking hold.
Fertilize your lawn. Fertilizing your lawn in the fall will help to provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth in the spring.
Mow your lawn one last time. Mowing your lawn shorter than usual will help to prevent mold and mildew from growing in the winter.
Aerate your lawn. Aeration is the process of removing small plugs of soil from the lawn to allow oxygen, water, and nutrients to reach the roots. Aeration can help to improve the overall health of your lawn.
Remove annual plants and flowers. Once the annuals have finished blooming, pull them out and dispose of them.
Plant bulbs. Now is the time to plant bulbs such as daffodils, tulips, and crocus so they will have time to establish roots before the ground freezes.
Check your irrigation system. Make sure that all the parts are in good working order, and that there are no leaks or clogs.
Clean your gutters. Clearing out your gutters will help to prevent water damage to your home and keep pests from taking up residence in them.
Prepare your outdoor living spaces. Clean and organize your patio furniture, BBQ grills, and other outdoor items so they can be properly stored for the winter.
Winterize your sprinkler system. Drain the water from the pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads, and cover the valves and backflow preventer with insulation or a protective cover to prevent freezing.
By following this fall maintenance checklist, you can help to ensure that your lawn and garden in Somerville, NJ are prepared for the winter and ready for healthy growth in the spring. Remember to be mindful of the weather conditions in the area and adjust your tasks accordingly. And always keep an eye out for any unexpected changes or problems, and address them as soon as possible.