The snow has melted (finally) & your backyard looks dull, Right ? Wrong- well, it might but it doesn't HAVE TO! Here are some tips for taking care of the craziness that is a post-winter yard.
1. Check out what needs to be done; look at what you need to DO- dead grass spots? Pet or animal messes? Broken or rusted items from a lack of winterizing? Make a list to keep yourself organized and focused because with something like the back yard it can seem like a daunting task so keeping organized is super important.
2. Dead grass spots; easy fix! Start your spring cleaning by tidying up & clearing off the grass- then sprinkle some fresh soil and grass + fertilizer in the area. Just make sure you keep it moist until it grows!
3. Clean up any debris or rusty things; fallen twigs, branches, leaves, rusted lawn furniture- throw it out. Make sure you rake when the ground is dry though because raking during wet times can create even more bare patches on your lawn. (be sure to compost where possible instead of garbage :) )
4. Clean up your lawn mower; make sure its in good condition so that when you need to use it - it's ready to go. things to make sure are done; spark plugs, oil, gas, no rust, sharpened blades, lubricated bearings etc.
5. begin pruning depending on when you start your cleaning or prepare for pruning; shrubs, trees and plants should be next on your list and make sure you know what to look for!
-prune anything dead (leaves, branches etc)
-prune when its dry
-prune well below the affected area so the 'dead' doesn't spread
-tall grass is cut easiest when all grabbed into a handful and cut at the base
-any butterfly bushes or Russian sage should be cut to about 4" so it grows back nice and strong
-fertilize properly and adequately
6. Look out for sales for new patio furniture or in terms of winterizing, its a good idea to protect your patio furniture in the winter or rain so that it still looks new and nice in the spring and summer. if you find your cushions look worn- you can always just replace just the cushions or make covers :)
7. Re-paint your fence (if you have a wooden one) - this typically doesn't need to be done yearly or even biyearly but if you live in a really dirty area near factories or something- you might want to power wash it (and your deck) and either repaint or re-stain it. and consider moving because its so awful to live in places like that (i can help you find a new home)
8. If you have a pool, open it, assess the needs and maybe begin your chemical process.
9. power wash any stones or walk ways from dirt or debris.
10. lastly, ill suggest cleaning your outdoor windows in the backyard :)
GOOD LUCK!
Comments