During the harsh stretch of winter, outdoor maintenance is no longer just about preserving the pristine green of your backyard. It becomes more about keeping your property safe and functional.
Winter prep looks different for every homeowner, depending on where you are in the country. For some, this might mean clearing heavy snow or insulating plants from strong winds. For others, it could involve managing wet conditions or ensuring your garden can withstand drier, cold weather.
Whatever your local climate, the following winterizing outdoor space strategies are worth considering.
Garden care: Protect your plants in winter
Pruning and mulching are the best ways to safeguard your plants from winter’s chill. Trimming shrubs and bushes keeps your garden looking sharp and prepares it to rebound more vigorously when spring arrives. It also helps prevent plant disease and keeps large plants in check so they don’t damage your yard or garden structures.
If you’re wondering when to prune, do so only after the coldest frosts pass to avoid damaging new growth. Pruning when temperatures drop below freezing can harm young trees or create open cuts that worsen in the cold.
Adding a layer of mulch around plant roots can also be beneficial during wintertime, as it acts as a barrier and keeps the soil’s temperature steady. Using straw, bark chips, or shredded leaves gives plants insulation and allows them to retain moisture.
Beyond mulch, other simple coverings can shield your plants. Frost cloths are lightweight and ideal for mild winters, while burlap or hessian offer more protection from wind. Plastic sheeting does wonders for young or delicate plants and ensures proper ventilation to prevent moisture build-up.
Lawn preparation: Keep your yard healthy
A lush lawn requires adequate prep to stay resilient through the winter. Start your yard work by aerating the lawn, ideally when temperatures are mild. Small holes in the soil encourage better water, air, and nutrient absorption down to the roots.
If you live in a snowy area, it helps to mow the grass shorter as winter approaches. A lower cut prevents snow molds, which thrive on long, matted grass under the snow. Getting rid of the garden waste you’ll accumulate at this stage may also be difficult, so consider booking a service to have an expert do it for you.
Different grass types have different winter needs. Kentucky Bluegrass thrives in colder climates with low mowing and a final fertilizer application. Warm-season grasses like Bermuda or St. Augustine go dormant and only need occasional watering to avoid root desiccation. Proper winter care will help your lawn bounce back strong in the spring.
Outdoor space maintenance: Prepare your patios and gutters
Don’t forget about your patios and decks! A good quality wood sealer can simply do the trick and keep winter’s moisture at bay.
Keep your gutters clear to prevent clogs and ice dams. Skipping a proper clean-up poses the risk of ice build-up that can weigh them down during winter. If you’ve got high or tricky gutters, consider hiring a professional to clean or repair them.
Also, clean your outdoor furniture well before storing it. A cover with air vents will protect it from the elements and keep it looking great even when the warmer months return.
Other outdoor prep to tailor to your local climate
Outdoor winter maintenance varies by climate. Here’s how to adjust your approach based on your local conditions.
Cold with snow
Clear pathways and driveways are crucial for staying safe in snowy regions in northern states. Plowing snow early and consistently is best to prevent dangerous ice build-up. You can also use heated mats to melt the snow for homes with steep driveways or walkways.
Don’t just clear the snow from your walkways; remove snow from your roof, too. Doing so prevents potential structural damage and eliminates the risk of a roof collapse, which could be a serious problem to face in the dead of winter.
If you have garden beds at home, consider weeding and removing spent plants to reduce stubborn pests like bugs, ants, and rats. You can also cover the soil with compost or chopped leaves to give it extra insulation and nutrients.
Cold and rainy
Rainy Pacific Northwest winters can lead to drainage issues, flooding, and muddy lawns. Consider planting water-thirsty trees like Dogwood or Red Maple to help absorb excess rain.
Use ground covers and mulch to prevent soil erosion and root rot. Outdoor structures like pergolas or covered patios can even offer valuable shelter, especially if you have potted plants.
Cold but dry
For regions with dry, cold winters, like in the Southwest, maintaining adequate moisture in the soil is a top priority. Keep roots from drying out by lightly watering the soil a few times each month. Watering in the morning is best to warm up the soil and reduce frost risk.
Protect your plants from drying winds by moving potted ones to closed locations or placing windbreaks around vulnerable areas of your home or garden. Remember to water them occasionally and keep them insulated around plant bases to ensure your roots stay warm and hydrated, especially during dry, windy spells.
Start your winter preparation with Airtasker
No matter where you live, taking these extra steps can definitely save your lawn, plants, and outdoor fixtures during the coldest days. While there is much to cover, you can always hire professional help to make winter outdoor maintenance more manageable.
Feeling overwhelmed by winter prep? Experienced Taskers can help. Post a task today to get your outdoor space winter-ready!
