We hate to see summer go, but, let’s face it, summer 2012 in the Midwest was so hot and dry that we cannot wait for some cool fall weather! The drought and heat may leave you wondering how to do your fall outdoor clean-up routine this year. What’s the best way to prepare your stressed-out lawn, shrubs and trees for winter and help them thrive next summer?
LAWNS
Many lawns around Naperville have brown patches that may have homeowners worried. Healthy lawns that have gone dormant will bounce back after a drought. Postpone fertilizing until the fall weather and rains arrive, however, to avoid stress. Lawn de-thatching is helpful to protect against future drought conditions. Autumn is also an ideal time to overseed and aerate your lawn.
Be sure to rake leaves from the lawn. They can form heavy, wet layers on top of the lawn and perennials, suffocating the plants or spreading disease.
PLANTS
It’s a good idea to remove vegetable and annual flower plants. They may contain potentially damaging spores and diseases which can harm those you plant next year. Remove damaged or diseased parts of plants like roses and peonies. Perennials such as sedum, purple coneflower and others containing seeds or berries are fine to leave as is. Birds will love them, and they add winter interest to the garden, especially after a snowfall. Apply a layer of compost or mulch to surround perennials. Don’t cover them, though. Of course, fall is the time to plant spring bulbs. Remove bulbs that won’t survive the winter and store for next spring.
TREES
Trees benefit from a good layer of mulch, providing nutrients while retaining water and facilitating drainage. Take a look at your trees to note any sign of distress and have them evaluated if you spot a problem.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE COLOR
Take advantage of our beautiful autumn weather by planting hardy asters, mums, and shrubs. Fall is also a great time to plant trees to enjoy this year and for years to come.
If this sounds like a lot of work, give us a call! We offer a fall clean-up service and can help you choose seasonally appropriate trees, shrubs and other plant material. We will help you recover from this year’s stressful summer so you can enjoy your outdoor space for years to come.
