New Title

Fall Lawn Maintenance Checklist

Fall has arrived!  If you follow this Southern Maryland fall maintenance checklist your lawn should be in great shape next spring.


Think of fall as being a great time to improve your lawn, trees, shrubbery, and garden. Following our basic maintenance tips should result in healthier growth next spring. Because the ground is still warm, the weeks ahead are an ideal time to plant.


Fall is the Time to Fertilize

Fertilizing in the fall will help keep your lawn strong and healthy. We recommend two applications of fertilizer, the first soon after Labor Day and the second at the last time you mow your lawn for the year.


Fall Lawn Aeration

Aeration involves extracting small cores of soil, perforating the soil with small holes which allows air, water and nutrients to seep into the grass roots. Aeration will help the roots grow deeply resulting in a more vigorous lawn. Add compost to replenish the soil with nutrients.


Seed Your Lawn

If your lawn has spare spots, it's a good time to repair these spots with seed. Fall lawn seeding will ensure your lawn gets a jump start in the spring.


Time to Plant Evergreens

If you have been thinking about planting evergreens, early fall planting will give the new plants time to get their roots established before winter.


It’s Time to Divide and Cut Back Perennials

If you have plants that haven’t done well, consider digging them up and moving them to a better location. If you have plants that have grown substantially, consider dividing them and replanting.


Get Bulbs in the Ground

If you love daffodils, tulips and such, fall is the time to plant them so you can enjoy colorful, springtime blooms.


Plant Fall Annuals

Add color to your lawn by planting fall annuals. Think mums, pansies, and verbena.


Pruning Trees & Shrubs

After trees and shrubs have dropped their leaves, fall is the time to prune. The best time for major pruning is when they are dormant in the winter.


Fall Clean-up

Before the first snowfall, schedule a thorough fall clean-up to prevent your yard from suffocating from piles of leaves. 


Don’t Forget to Protect Cold Sensitive Plants

Protect your shrubs, roses, and perennials with burlap so that the cold winter blasts don’t kill them.


We know you are busy so if preparing your lawn this fall is too much to handle, call HoneyCove Landscape & Tree Service to get a free estimate. Don't forget to ask about our Lawn Maintenance Packages.

Utility workers in neon vests working by a large tree in a residential yard with orange cones and equipment
By Brandon • September 20, 2026
Learn what to look for in a licensed, insured tree service company, from proper permits and certified arborists to equipment and written estimates.
People are preparing a lakeshore in autumn.
By Brandon • September 19, 2026
Fall prep tips for Southern Maryland waterfront properties: tree inspections, shoreline erosion, drainage, salt-exposed plants, and storm-ready checks.
A truck-mounted crane trims tree branches to remove a fallen tree over a beige house.
By Brandon Turner • September 2, 2026
Hurricane season peaks Aug–Oct in Southern Maryland. Learn the warning signs of a storm-risk tree and when to call a licensed arborist.
August 4, 2025
How do I protect my trees from insects & Disease in Southern Maryland?
Tall tree with green leaves against a blue sky with fluffy white clouds, forest in the background.
By Brandon Turner • March 3, 2025
Despite the dangers, there's a certain awe-inspiring beauty in watching tall trees sway and bend in the wind.
A large pile of dirt is sitting on top of a hill for erosion control..
October 28, 2024
Protect Your Land with Effective Erosion Contro l
Show More