Winterizing your yard and landscaping is essential to protect your plants, lawn, and outdoor features from the harsh conditions of winter. The specific steps you need to take can vary depending on your location and the type of plants and features you have, and whether you have a modest yard or an expansive property.

1. Clean Up Yard Debris:

Remove fallen leaves, dead plants, and any other debris from your yard. This helps prevent disease and pests from overwintering in the garden.

2. Prune and Trim Branches and Shrubs:

Prune back any dead or damaged branches on trees and shrubs. This reduces the risk of breakage from heavy snow and ice. 

3. Mulch your Garden Beds:

Apply a layer of mulch to protect the root systems of plants. Mulch helps to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture.

Make your own mulch with a wood chipper.

4. Continue Watering:

Make sure your plants go into winter well-hydrated so they can withstand the drying effects of cold weather.

5. Wrap Delicate Plants:

For more delicate plants or those not suited to your climate, consider wrapping them in burlap or other protective materials to shield them from harsh winds and freezing temperatures. 

6. Protect Container Plants:

If you have potted plants, move them to a sheltered location or group them together to provide some insulation. You can also wrap the pots in bubble wrap or burlap to prevent the roots from freezing.

7 Close out Mowing Season:

Continue mowing your lawn until it stops growing. Trim it to a lower height to prevent disease and pests from taking hold. 

Aerate your lawn to ensure good oxygen circulation to the roots.

8. Fertilize:

Apply a winter-specific fertilizer to help your plants store nutrients and recover in the spring.

9. Drain and Store Hoses and Irrigation Systems:

Disconnect and drain hoses to prevent freezing and bursting. 

If you have an irrigation system, make sure it's professionally winterized.

10. Protect Outdoor Structures:

If you have outdoor furniture or structures like gazebos and pergolas, consider covering or storing them to prevent winter damage.

11. Check and Clean Gutters:

Clear your gutters of leaves and debris to ensure proper water drainage.

Ensure downspouts direct water away from the foundation.

12. Insulate Exposed Pipes, Faucets, and Containers:

Insulate outdoor pipes and faucets to prevent freezing and bursting.

If you have rain barrels or compost bins, insulate them to prevent freezing.

13. Check Lighting:

Make sure outdoor lighting, especially path lights, are in working order to ensure safety during the darker winter months.

14. Snow Removal Tools:

Have snow shovels, snow blowers, and ice melt on hand for easy access when you need to clear walkways and driveways.

If you have a snow plow, perform routine maintenance to prepare for winter.

If you don’t have a snow plow but could use one at your home or small business, check out our DK2 snow plows. 

Remember to adapt these steps based on your local climate and specific plant varieties. Winterizing your yard and landscaping is crucial for the health and longevity of your outdoor space, and it can save you time and effort when spring arrives. Whether you are managing a large property or tending to your backyard garden, take the time now to prepare for winter.