Fall Yard Cleanup: 9 Must-Haves to Protect Your Garden

(Amazon)

As the warm days gently transition to cooler temperatures, it’s time to start thinking about storing your patio furniture, cleaning up your yard, and taking care of your garden.

We’ve prepared a checklist of tasks to complete before winter arrives, along with nine essential tools to get your yard and garden ready this fall.

This text is a translation from Noovo Moi.

1. Prepare the Garden and Flower Beds

Clear out dead annuals or plants in poor condition. Perennials, on the other hand, should be cut back to 1 or 2 inches above the ground to promote healthy growth next spring. Finish by applying fall fertilizer. Rich in potassium, it helps trees and plants survive the winter weather.

2. Spread Organic Mulch

By moderating temperature fluctuations, mulch acts as a natural barrier against frost while preventing weed growth. Choose organic mulch, such as ramial chipped wood (RCW) or shredded bark. Dampen the soil before applying a layer 3 to 5 cm deep around perennials, and 8 to 15 cm deep around trees. Water the mulch lightly as well so it stays in place.

3. Protect Hedges and Shrubs

Trim hedges and shrubs before wrapping them for the winter, paying special attention to those exposed to high winds and heavy snowfall. Avoid plastic bags and black geotextile fabrics; opt instead for breathable, biodegradable burlap covers. Wait until November to install them, as late warm spells can create condensation and mould underneath.

4. Rake Dead Leaves

Fallen leaves can smother your lawn, leading to dead patches next spring. If raking feels tedious, shred the leaves using your lawnmower to turn them into nutrient-rich compost. Ensure about 50% of the grass is visible beneath the leaf layer. You can also use a 10 cm layer of dead leaves as insulation in flower beds — just make sure not to cover the crowns of the plants.

5. Mow the Lawn

Mow your lawn one last time before winter to a height of about two inches. You can also overseed and fertilize thin patches to ensure a lush, green lawn come spring.

9 Yard and Garden Essentials for Fall