Essential Tips to Prepare Your Garden for Fall

Rake and Clean Up Debris

Fallen leaves are a hallmark of fall, but letting them pile up in your yard can suffocate the grass, create an ideal environment for pests, and promote fungal growth. Regular raking ensures your lawn remains healthy. At Lourenco Brothers Yardscape & Design, we recommend using the leaves for compost or mulch to feed your garden naturally.

Aerate the Soil

Over the summer, your lawn may have compacted from frequent use. Aerating loosens the soil, allowing water, air, and nutrients to penetrate deeper into the roots. This is particularly important in the fall, as it strengthens your grass before the winter dormancy period, setting the stage for a lush lawn come spring. Our team at Lourenco Brothers Yardscape & Design can assist you with this process.

 Add Fertilizer

After aerating, it’s the perfect time to fertilize your lawn. Fall fertilization is crucial because it provides your plants with the nutrients they need to develop strong root systems. Lourenco Brothers Yardscape & Design recommends using a fertilizer rich in potassium and phosphorus, which will support root growth and overall resilience during the colder months.

 Prune Perennials and Trim Trees

Fall is an excellent time to trim back overgrown plants, particularly perennials. Pruning dead or diseased branches also helps trees and shrubs conserve energy during the winter. Lourenco Brothers Yardscape & Design advises not to over-prune, as some plants use their leaves as insulation during the cold.

 Mulching for Winter Protection

Mulching is not just for summer! Applying a fresh layer of mulch in the fall can help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and protect your plants from the cold. Organic mulches, like bark or straw, can also decompose over the winter, enriching the soil with nutrients for spring.

Plant Fall Flowers

Many flowers bloom beautifully in the cooler months. Consider adding hardy blooms like pansies, mums, or ornamental cabbages to keep your garden colorful throughout fall. These plants are resistant to frost and can add vibrant touches even as other plants go dormant. Lourenco Brothers Yardscape & Design can help you choose the best plants for your garden.

By following these steps with the support of Lourenco Brothers Yardscape & Design, you’ll ensure that your garden is well-prepared to withstand the winter and come back even stronger in the spring.