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.