How to Winterize a Yard

As fall approaches, it is necessary to take a look outside and begin to prepare for the coming winter months. There are necessary chores that must be done in order to winterize a yard so that it is ready for the next growing season. The yard will come alive when winter is over if the time and effort are taken in the fall to clean up and protect what is outdoors from the harsh cold. It will also allow more time in the spring to begin planting and enjoying the outdoors.

Things You'll Need

• Rake
• Mulch
• Clippers
• Burlap
• Pruning shears

Instructions

1. Rake all leaves that have fallen off of the surrounding trees. Leaves should be removed from the lawn and also from flower beds. Fallen leaves can smother the lawn and plants if left on the ground. They can also transmit diseases and pests to a lawn or flower bed. Add fertilizer to the lawn in the fall to feed the roots through the winter.

2. Clean out the flower beds and vegetable garden in preparation for next spring. This is a good time to have the pH and fertilizer tested. Add sulfur and lime to the soil if necessary. Add mulch to the flower beds to protect the roots over the winter. Straw or hay is an adequate mulch to use on flower beds.

3. Water the lawn and bushes thoroughly prior to the ground freezing. This will assure that the roots have sufficient water throughout the winter. Leave the lawn at least 2 inches tall for the winter months. For sensitive bushes, wrap with burlap to protect from the cold and wind.

4. Prune any rose bushes back to approximately 18 inches in height. Remove all leaves and cover the surrounding ground with mulch.

5. Plant spring bulbs early in the fall in order to give the roots time to develop. Spring bulbs, such as tulips and daffodils, should be planted in groups to produce the best display of color in early spring.

6. Check all garden equipment in the fall. This is the time to have the necessary repairs made so that they are ready to be used in the spring. Clean and oil all garden tools to protect them through the winter.

7. Remove all fallen leaves and debris from all rain gutters. This will prevent water backups during the freezing and thawing that occurs throughout the winter months.

8. Check the deck and any other wooden surfaces for mold. If mold is present, wash with a solution of liquid detergent and bleach mixed with water to remove the mold.

9. Put all garden hoses away for the winter. Wrap any outdoor spigots with insulation to protect from freezing. Check sidewalks and driveway for cracks. Depending on their composition, all cracks should be filled with cement filler or asphalt filler. This will prevent further damage to the surface.

10. If there is a water feature, such as a fountain or pond, remove all leaves and debris. Drain all of the water and remove the pump. Store the pump in the garage or house for the winter months.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that any leaves or foliage being added to a compost bin are disease free and pest free.

• Use a floating pond de-icer to keep a pond running throughout the winter months.

• Cover a pond or fountain with netting to prevent debris from falling in during the winter.

• If roses are in an area susceptible to wind, it may be necessary to cover them.

• Make sure winterizing is done prior to the first freeze.

Resources

• Winterizing