As the vibrant colors of summer transition into the warm hues of autumn throughout NJ, NY, and PA, the time has come to prepare your outdoor spaces for the changing seasons. Keep reading to learn a few strategies for preparing gardens, lawns, outdoor kitchens, and walkways for the challenges of accumulating leaves and fluctuating temperatures that the fall season brings.

Garden and Plant Bed Preparation 

Fall is an excellent time to rejuvenate your garden beds and prepare them for the colder months ahead. Here’s what to consider:

Pruning and Deadheading: Trim back spent flowers and prune overgrown branches to promote healthy growth next season.

Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around plants to protect their root systems from temperature fluctuations and provide insulation.

Planting Fall Bulbs: Plant bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, and crocuses for a burst of color in early spring.

Dividing Perennials: Divide and replant overcrowded perennials to ensure optimal growth next year.

Lawn Care in Autumn 

A lush and healthy lawn requires special attention during fall:

Aeration: Core aeration helps improve soil compaction and allows nutrients to penetrate deeper into the soil.

Overseeding: Overseed your lawn to fill in bare patches and enhance its overall density.

Fertilization: Apply a slow-release, high-nitrogen fertilizer to fortify your lawn’s roots before winter.

Leaf Removal: Regularly clear fallen leaves to prevent suffocation and maintain a neat appearance.

Preparing Outdoor Kitchens 

Outdoor kitchens are an extension of your living space. Preparing them for fall involves both maintenance and protection:

Cleaning: Thoroughly clean countertops, appliances, and grills to prevent grease buildup and deterioration.

Covering: Use weather-resistant covers for appliances and countertops to shield them from moisture, leaves, and debris. If you have soapstone or slate countertops, these can be left uncovered because of their durability.

Walkways and Pathways 

Ensuring safe and accessible walkways is essential as you prepare for colder months:

Leaf Removal: Regularly sweep and remove fallen leaves from walkways to prevent slips and falls.

Repairs: Inspect walkways for cracks, uneven surfaces, or loose pavers. Repair any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

Lighting: As daylight hours decrease, ensure walkways are well-lit to maintain safety and aesthetics.

Handling Leaf Accumulation

Leaf accumulation is a hallmark of fall, and addressing it effectively is essential:

Raking and Composting: Don’t miss this opportunity for nutrient-rich garden soil! Regularly rake or blow leaves to create a compost pile you can use in the spring.

Leaf Blowing: Don’t forget to remove leaves from hardscape areas, as well. Depending on your tiling or countertops, some surfaces may be stained by decaying leaves. If you chose soapstone or slate, you don’t need to worry about this, but cleaning it now makes for an easier spring!

Leaf Vacuuming: Consider using a leaf vacuum for larger properties to expedite leaf removal.

Fall is a time of transformation in the tri-state area, and your outdoor spaces deserve careful attention. As a dedicated professional landscaper or landscape architect, following these comprehensive strategies will ensure that your gardens, lawns, outdoor kitchens, and walkways are well-prepared to face the challenges and beauty of the autumn season.

If your outdoor space was less than perfect this summer, come to Garden State Soapstone, Slate, and Wood to discuss a new outdoor oasis with durable tiles and countertops that stands against the seasons.