As temperatures begin to dip, it’s important to give your lawn and garden the attention they need before the first frost hits. Proper preparation now will help protect plants, preserve your landscape’s health, and set the stage for a vibrant return in spring.
Clear Out Debris
Remove fallen leaves, dead plants, and garden waste to prevent mold, pests, and disease. A clean garden bed also reduces the chances of overwintering insects and ensures better soil conditions later.
Cut Back Perennials
Trim down perennials to a few inches above the soil to encourage healthy regrowth next season. Be sure to remove any diseased foliage, but consider leaving some ornamental grasses and seed heads for winter interest and wildlife.
Fertilize the Lawn
Apply a slow-release, winterizing fertilizer to strengthen grass roots and promote cold tolerance. This last feeding gives your lawn the nutrients it needs to survive the winter and bounce back come spring.
Mulch Garden Beds
Add a layer of mulch around plants, shrubs, and trees to insulate roots and maintain soil moisture. Mulching helps regulate temperature swings and protects delicate roots from freeze damage.
Water Thoroughly
Give your lawn and garden a deep watering before the ground freezes. Hydrated plants are better equipped to withstand cold weather and will emerge healthier after winter dormancy.
Prepping your lawn and garden before the first frost isn’t just smart—it’s essential for long-term health and beauty. By clearing out dead growth, trimming perennials, fertilizing, mulching, and watering well, you give your landscape the best chance to survive the cold and come back stronger in the spring. A little work now leads to lush, vibrant results later.