When the weather turns cool and the leaves start to fall, it’s time to tidy up your garden before winter arrives. Fall garden cleanup is not just about keeping your yard looking nice but it also serves to safeguard your plants, soil, and outdoor area from harm and disease. A little effort now equals less effort and more beauty for next spring.
At Hernandez Lawn Care, we are aware of just how critical effective seasonal lawn maintenance is. That is why we provide trusted landscaping services in Chicago to ensure that you’re one step ahead. But in case you are getting your sleeves dirty and taking matters into your own hands, here are a few easy and handy tips on how to ease and improve the process of cleaning your fall garden.
Begin With the Leaves
Leaves on the ground are the largest component of fall cleanup. Although a handful of leaves can provide insulation for your soil, excessive leaves can smother your grass and invite pests.
- Rake or blow leaves often to avoid accumulation
- Add dry, clean leaves to your compost pile
- Use leaf mulch to cover garden beds or flower beds
Don’t let them accumulate on your lawn as they can interfere with sunlight and form moldy spots that’ll destroy your grass.
Remove Dead or Spent Plants
Old vegetable plants, spent flowers, and annuals must be taken out to stop disease from spreading and minimize pest problems.
- Dig up annuals such as marigolds, zinnias, and tomatoes
- Cut back overgrown or diseased perennials
- Compost the healthy ones—throw away anything that appears infected
Removing these plants also provides space for mulch or other winter cover.
Prune Carefully
Fall pruning forms up plants and takes out damaged or weak limbs before snow and winter winds can damage them.
- Trim dead branches from trees and shrubs
- Don’t over-prune spring flowers as they’ll need their flower buds next year
- Sterilize pruning shears between plants to prevent disease spread
This makes your shrubs and trees healthy as well as tidy-looking.
Clean Out Garden Beds
After your plants are taken out or pruned, thoroughly clean your garden beds.
- Take out weeds, trash, and any remaining mulch
- Turn the dirt to assist aeration and dissolve clumps
- Apply compost to enhance soil health throughout winter
Clean beds prevent pests and weeds from overwintering in your yard.
Mow One Last Time
Give your lawn one last cut before you put your mower away. But don’t go too short!
- Trim your grass to about 2.5 to 3 inches
- This keeps the lawn healthy without making it vulnerable to frost
- Bag the clippings if you’ve recently treated your lawn or see signs of disease
A final mow makes the yard look neat and helps prevent snow mold.
Mulch Around Trees and Plants
Mulching helps protect roots from freezing temperatures and maintains moisture in the soil.
- Apply mulch 2–3 inches thick around the base of trees and shrubs
- Keep it a few inches away from the trunk to avoid rot
- Use organic mulch like bark, leaves, or straw
Mulch is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prepare your landscape for winter.
Protect Your Tools and Equipment
Once your garden cleanup is done, don’t forget your tools!
- Clean and dry tools before storing them
- Sharpen cutting blades and lubricate moving parts
- Drain and winterize your hose, and turn off outside faucets
Maintaining your tools today makes them last longer and perform better next season.
Plant Fall Bulbs and Cover Crops
Want to enjoy the colors of spring? Now’s the time to plant bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
- Choose a bright place with good drainage
- Bury deep enough to shield them from frost
- Water thoroughly after planting
You can also sow cover crops in your garden beds to enhance soil health and prevent erosion.
Watch for Pests
As the temperature cools, pests and wildlife seek shelter.
- Clear brush piles, wood, and debris where rodents might nest
- Inspect trees and shrubs for insect eggs or damage
- Employ natural repellents or barriers if necessary
Proactive measures prevent your yard from becoming a winter pest haven.
Consider Professional Help
Fall cleanup can be a lot of work especially if you have a big yard or little time. That’s where the pros at Hernandez Lawn Care come in.
Our landscaping services in Chicago are ideal for homeowners who want to enjoy a clean, safe, and beautiful yard without the effort. From leaf removal to pruning and mulching, we do it all with care and expertise.
Final Thoughts
Fall garden clean-up is not only a chore, it’s a smart move to protect your plants, enrich your soil, and get a spring jump-start. With these tips, you’ll have a yard that not only makes it through the winter, but comes back stronger than ever.
Need assistance? Have faith in the professionals at Hernandez Lawn Care to remove the worry from seasonal yard work. Your garden will reward you next spring!