Complete Fall Cleanup Guide: Preparing Your Yard

Fall is the most critical season for yard preparation. The work you do now will determine how well your lawn and landscape survive winter and how quickly they recover in spring. A comprehensive fall cleanup sets the foundation for a beautiful yard next year.

Why Fall Cleanup Matters

Fall cleanup isn't just about aesthetics – it's about plant health, disease prevention, and preparing your landscape for winter dormancy. Proper fall care can mean the difference between a thriving spring garden and one that struggles to recover.

Leaf Management Strategy

While a thin layer of leaves can provide natural mulch, thick accumulations block sunlight and trap moisture, leading to fungal diseases and pest problems. The key is balance – remove excess leaves while leaving some for natural protection.

Lawn Care Priorities

Fall is the best time for major lawn care activities. Cool temperatures and increased moisture create ideal conditions for grass growth and recovery. Aeration, overseeding, and fertilization are most effective during this season.

Essential Fall Tasks by Category

Lawn Care

• • Continue mowing until growth stops, gradually lowering height
• • Apply fall fertilizer high in potassium for winter hardiness
• • Aerate compacted areas to improve root development
• • Overseed thin or bare spots for spring recovery
• • Remove leaves regularly to prevent smothering

Tree and Shrub Care

• • Prune dead, diseased, or damaged branches
• • Wrap young trees to prevent winter damage
• • Apply mulch around base but keep away from trunk
• • Water deeply before ground freezes
• • Remove any diseased plant material

Garden Bed Preparation

• • Cut back perennials after first hard frost
• • Add compost or organic matter to beds
• • Plant spring bulbs before ground freezes
• • Mulch beds for winter protection
• • Remove annual plants and debris

Equipment and Tool Maintenance

Fall is also the perfect time to clean, maintain, and store your garden tools and equipment. Proper care extends their life and ensures they're ready for spring use.

Mower Maintenance

Before storing your mower for winter, change the oil, replace the air filter, and either run the fuel tank empty or add fuel stabilizer. Clean the deck thoroughly and sharpen or replace the blade.

Tool Care

Clean all hand tools, oil wooden handles, and sharpen cutting edges. Store tools in a dry location to prevent rust. This is also a good time to inventory your tools and replace any that are beyond repair.