As a full-service property management and licensed realtor service, we know how important it is to maintain attractive landscaping to retain and attract new tenants, and while many people believe spring is the best time to update their yards, fall prep is even better. If you are looking to get started on your fall landscaping prep, just follow these easy steps below. While some people consider raking the fallen leaves as the only step to fall landscaping, there is much more to it.
The first step of fall landscaping is to assess the landscape and track the successes and failures of individual plants. It is estimated that you should start six weeks before the first hard freeze and identify which plants have outgrown their space and need to be divided.
The second step is going to be a little more hands-on. It is now time to decide what plants, shrubs, and trees you want to install. It would be a good idea to add winter flowers to your yard to brighten up the landscaping, like Snowdrops, Boxwoods, Witch hazel, or Camellias. Fall is a great time to do this, due to the cooler weather and increased rain. The initial shock a plant experiences when it is transplanted is also reduced, due to the plants being in their winter dormancy period. Another benefit is that transporting plants in the fall gives plenty of time for plants to grow before the next hot, drier summer ahead. Lastly, be sure to prune and wrap any necessary plants for the winter season and avoid feeding any plants.
Another big step for fall landscaping prep is replacing, renovating, and maintaining your lawn. Similar to the reasons stated above, September, October, and November are perfect months to prepare your lawn for the harsh elements of the upcoming season. The fall is when lawn root systems are the most active, and in providing your lawn with the resources it needs, will make sure it is healthy and ready for the spring. Until the last cut of the season, it is best to keep the length of the lawn not too short so that it will aid in reducing brown dead spots during the winter months. You should also continue watering your grass whenever it is dry, to recover from summer stress, gain strength for the winter, and help with fertilizer.
Along with the grass, you should spruce up the lawn and eliminate any weeds, diseases, or pests caught, to prevent further damage and ensure long-term health. Leaves can also do some damage, so it is best to remove the leaves and make sure they do not pile up and suffocate the grass. Lastly, take a few minutes to inspect the lawn and remove anything that might get ruined or be in the way of the snow and snowblower in the winter, like rocks, cables, extension cords, and garden hoses. The last thing property managers want is a tenant to slip and fall when the icy winter season arrives. There are plenty of precautions that can be done to mitigate the dangers that ice, snow, and slush could cause.
The next thing to do for fall landscaping prep is to prepare irrigation and check for drainage for proper winterization. There may be some spots in your lawn that are more prone to puddling once the fall rain arrives due to the dry, hot summer months, that may need to be worked on. Regarding the sprinkler systems, hoses used in the warmer seasons must be blown out and drained so that they do not freeze and crack in the colder seasons, forcing you to spend money to buy a new one.
Last but not least, do not forget about your shed and gutters. Take the time to clean your shed, toss out any old chemicals, responsibility of course, and going through your tools. Certain gardening products have a shelf life and may lose effectiveness over time, or in certain weather conditions, that you do not need to keep in the winter. Also, tools should be cleaned, sharpened, and organized for the end of the season and already for the spring. Lastly, make sure to clear out your gutters and roof.
And don’t forget to make sure your property is inviting prospective tenants for the fall. Consider adding some pumpkins, potted flowers, and/or another lawn décor to catch someone’s eye and create a better curb appeal.
Read more of our blog posts here.
SINCE 1980 YOUNG & ASSOCIATES, WOOD-RIDGE, NJ HAS BEEN THE TOP PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & REAL ESTATE COMPANY FOR RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES THROUGHOUT THE NORTHERN AND CENTRAL NEW JERSEY AREA.
Located in Wood-Ridge, Bergen County, NJ, Young and Associates has over 30 years’ experience successfully managing residential and commercial properties in Northern and Central New Jersey.
Maintaining the highest standards of reliability and accountability, Young and Associates gives property owners peace of mind that comes from knowing their property is in trusting hands. Servicing properties primarily in Bergen, Passaic and Essex Counties, Young and Associates manages residential HOA communities, condos, co-ops and apartment complexes, golf courses and commercial properties.
Young and Associates now offers realty services through Young Realtors. Our licensed real estate brokers and associates can help you buy or sell your home. For more information about our services at Young & Associates, click here.
Young & Associates can be reached at (201) 939-8200.
