How to Prepare Your Backyard for Fall

How to Prepare Your Backyard for Fall

As the cooler temperatures roll in and the leaves start to fall, your backyard needs some TLC to get ready for the upcoming months. Prepping your outdoor space for fall ensures it stays tidy, protected, and ready to bounce back when spring arrives. In this post, we’ll walk you through simple steps to get your yard in top shape for the colder weather.

1. Clean Up the Yard

The first step in preparing your backyard for fall is a thorough clean-up.

• Rake up fallen leaves: While those crunchy leaves are fun to step on, leaving them scattered across your lawn can trap moisture, leading to mold and damage. Get them into bags or compost them for garden use.
• Mow the lawn: Give your grass one last cut for the season. Mowing before the weather gets too cold helps prevent disease and keeps your lawn looking neat.
• Trim trees and shrubs: Overgrown branches can snap during windy, stormy weather. Pruning now will also help with new growth come spring.

2. Prepare the Garden

Fall is actually a great time to show your garden some love.

• Plant fall-friendly flowers: Consider adding hardy plants like chrysanthemums and pansies, which thrive in cooler temperatures.
• Cut back perennials: Trim off any dead growth so your plants will grow back strong in the spring.
• Protect delicate plants: Use mulch or cover fragile plants to shield them from frost and the colder nights ahead.

3. Store Outdoor Furniture

You want to make sure your outdoor furniture is ready to go for next summer, and that means storing it properly.

• Clean it up: Wash off any dirt or grime from chairs, tables, and cushions. Mildew loves moisture, so ensure everything is dry before storing.
• Bring in cushions: Keep your cushions, pillows, and umbrellas safe from harsh winter weather by storing them in a garage or shed.
• Cover large pieces: For furniture that can’t be moved, use weatherproof covers to protect them from rain and snow.

4. Drain and Store Garden Hoses

Leaving hoses outside during freezing temperatures is a sure way to shorten their lifespan.

• Disconnect and drain: Remove hoses from faucets and let any remaining water flow out. This prevents freezing and cracking.
• Store them away: Roll up your hoses and store them indoors, preferably in a garage or shed, to protect them from frost.

5. Winterize Sprinkler Systems

If you have a sprinkler system, now’s the time to prep it for the colder months.

• Shut off the water: Turn off your irrigation system to stop water from freezing in the lines.
• Blow out the system: Use an air compressor to clear any water left in the pipes, which will prevent damage from expanding ice.

6. Inspect and Repair Hardscapes

Patios, decks, and other hardscapes can take a hit during fall and winter if you’re not careful.

• Check for cracks: Inspect your patio, driveway, and walkways for any cracks or loose stones. Fixing these now helps prevent further damage from ice and snow.
• Seal your deck: If you have a wooden deck, apply a fresh coat of sealant to protect it from the moisture and freezing temperatures that are on the way.

By prepping your backyard in the fall, you’re setting yourself up for a low-maintenance winter and a vibrant outdoor space when spring rolls around again. With just a little effort now, you’ll keep your yard in great shape for months to come.