Fall Landscape Cleanup Essentials

Fall cleanup is essential for maintaining a healthy landscape and preparing for winter. In Central Texas, our mild winters mean fall cleanup focuses on tidying up, protecting plants, and setting the stage for spring growth. This guide covers all the essential tasks.

Leaf Management

Rake and remove fallen leaves from lawns and garden beds. While some leaves can be left as mulch in garden beds, too many can smother plants and create disease problems. Compost leaves or use them as mulch in appropriate areas.

Plant Cleanup

Remove dead annuals and cut back perennials that have finished blooming. Leave some seed heads for winter interest and wildlife food. Prune dead or diseased branches from trees and shrubs, but avoid heavy pruning that might stimulate new growth.

Lawn Preparation

Continue mowing your lawn until it stops growing. Apply fall fertilizer to help grass store nutrients for winter and spring growth. Overseed thin areas if needed, and aerate compacted soil to improve root development.

Irrigation System

Drain and winterize your irrigation system to prevent freeze damage. While Central Texas rarely experiences hard freezes, it's better to be prepared. Adjust watering schedules for cooler weather and reduced plant water needs.

Winter Protection

Protect sensitive plants from potential freezes with frost cloth or other protective measures. Mulch around plants to insulate roots and conserve moisture. Consider bringing container plants indoors or to protected areas.