Fall is the most important season for landscaping. What you do now determines how your yard looks come spring. Here's your complete checklist.
Lawn Care
Aerate compacted lawns to improve drainage and root growth. Overseed thin areas with appropriate grass seed. Apply fall fertilizer (high potassium formula). Continue mowing until grass stops growing. Rake leaves or mulch them into the lawn.
Planting
Fall is ideal for planting trees, shrubs, and perennials — cool air reduces stress while soil is still warm for root growth. Plant spring bulbs (tulips, daffodils, hyacinths) 6-8 weeks before ground freezes. Divide overgrown perennials and replant or share.
Cleanup
Remove annuals after frost kills them. Cut back perennials (but leave some seed heads for birds). Clean up fallen leaves and debris (prevents disease). Compost healthy plant material.
Winterizing
Drain and store garden hoses. Winterize irrigation systems (blow out lines in cold climates). Protect tender plants with mulch or burlap. Apply anti-desiccant spray to broadleaf evergreens.
Planning
Take photos of your garden to remember what worked. Note what you want to change next year. Order spring bulbs and bare-root plants. Use Yardcast to visualize next year's improvements.