As Chevy Chase homeowners, we spend a good amount of time and money keeping our yards beautifully maintained in the summer – but we often fall short when autumn rolls around! Deferred maintenance can reduce the health of your lawn, and create more work for you in the spring.
Fortunately, there are a few easy steps you can take to prepare your lawn and garden for the winter! Follow these expert tips from Troy-Bilt to bring out the best in your Chevy Chase lawn!
Evaluate. Before you begin, take a moment to review what plantings, seeds, and tactics worked best in your lawn and garden last season. Jot down notes in a garden journal so you remember what works best. Tip: fall is the best time to move plants because roots have ample time to re-establish themselves. Make note of new plant locations to avoid unintentional damage to them next spring.
Clean up. Fallen leaves and yard debris can harbor pests and plant diseases. Not only is the removal of seasonal debris an immediate aesthetic improvement, it’s the easiest way to keep your lawn healthy.
Repair damage. Fall is the best time to reseed a lawn that’s been damaged by summer heat. Top-dressing the seed with up to one-quarter inch compost or soil will help it take root.
Don’t put away the hose. Continue to water plants, shrubs and lawns in the fall, as rainfall tends to slow down. Plants need to stay hydrated in order to properly convert to winter dormancy.
Fertilize. Despite common belief, autumn – not spring – is the most crucial time to fertilize lawns and gardens. Renewing the mulch in flower beds, especially the top two or three inches, will protect most plants from freezing temperatures.
Go easy on pruning. Pruning promotes growth, but good timing brings the best results. Pruning in late fall helps plants prepare for winter dormancy, and encourages fresh growth in the spring.
Think spring. Planting flower bulbs in the fall will reward you with beautiful blooms in the spring! Tulips and daffodils make early appearances; crocus, iris, and gladiolus come up a bit later in the season. With a bit of planting strategy, your Chevy Chase home will be complimented by vibrant, colorful flowers throughout the spring and summer!
Cover plots. Covering a garden bed with burlap keeps weeds at bay. Another option is to plant a nitrogen-rich cover crop, like clover, which can be easily turned under when spring arrives.
Tune-up tools. After completing your lawn and garden care, be sure to clean, oil and sharpen tools. Store in a dry place to prevent rust.
Winterize your power equipment. Drain the gas from your lawn mower and other gas-powered machines after you’ve finished using them for the season.
A little yard work during the fall will reward your Chevy Chase home with excellent curb appeal next spring and summer! Pride of ownership is a hallmark of Chevy Chase living!
As your Chevy Chase real estate professional, I’m happy to share useful home tips, industry news and community information. When you have questions about buying or selling a home in Chevy Chase, MD, I will be happy to help you! My experience with the Chevy Chase real estate market, and my commitment to client service, will be your advantage in our fast-changing market.
Contact me today for the latest neighborhood sales data, and for information about the beautiful homes for sale in Chevy Chase, MD!
Melinda Estridge
The Estridge Group-Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.
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