October Landscape Checklist: Fall Prep Made Simple

October is the perfect time to give your landscape a little TLC before winter sets in. Whether you’re preserving your curb appeal or prepping your garden for next season, here’s what should be on your fall checklist:

 1. Clean Up Leaves (But Not Too Much!)

• Rake leaves off your lawn to prevent suffocating the grass.

• Leave those leaves in garden beds to insulate soil, support pollinators, and provide vital nutrients to the soil—embrace that leaf litter!

2. Cut Back Perennials (Selectively)

• Trim back perennials that are prone to disease. Look out for Powdery Mildew and Leaf Spot!

• Leave seed heads, like coneflowers or ornamental grasses, for winter interest and wildlife food.

3. Mulch for Moisture & Warmth

• Add a fresh layer of mulch (3-4") around trees and in beds to lock in moisture and protect roots.

• Don’t pile mulch against trunks—leave a few inches of space to prevent rot. Think Donut, NOT Volcano!

5. Plant for Spring

• If you’re considering a landscape refresh, planting now means an easier start in spring. Examples are trees and shrubs, spring bulbs, and hardy perennials.

6. Assess and Plan Ahead

• Take note of what worked and what didn’t this season.

• Fall is a great time to take note! That way, come winter, you can talk with us about landscape improvements, redesigns, or adding features!

Have any questions about your fall landscape checklist? Ask our pros at 614-873-7333!