TOMS RIVER, NJ – Fall is coming quickly in New Jersey. In fact, in two days, the summer of 2023 will offically come to and end. That means getting your house ready for fall and the long winter season.
The leaves are already starting to turn in the Garden State. Speaking of gardens, your summer garden is quickly fading and unless you’ve planted your fall garden, you’re almost at the end of the line.
As the crisp autumn air begins to replace the balmy breezes of summer, it’s time to start thinking about getting your backyard ready for the fall season. The days of pool parties, barbecues, and sunbathing may be over, but a well-maintained backyard can still be a sanctuary for relaxation and family gatherings. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through a checklist of essential tasks that will help you prepare your outdoor space for the cooler months ahead.
Let’s start with the obvious: raking leaves. Once the leaves start to fall, it’s essential to gather them up. Not only will this keep your yard looking neat, but it will also prevent the leaves from suffocating your lawn or becoming a breeding ground for pests. Consider composting the leaves or using them as mulch for your garden beds.
It’s time to store away the inflatables, pool toys, and summer decorations. Clean them thoroughly before packing them up to avoid mildew or pest problems, and ensure they’re completely dry. This will help maintain their quality for next year’s summer season.
As temperatures drop, the need for frequent watering diminishes. To prevent water from freezing in the pipes and causing damage, it’s crucial to turn off your sprinkler system. You might also want to consider draining the system entirely for added protection.
A garden needs some attention before you can consider it ready for the winter. Remove any dead plants and weeds. Till the soil and add some nutrient-rich compost to prepare it for the next planting season. This is also a great time to plant some fall-specific plants like mums or pansies.
If you have a pool, this is the time to close it up. Adjust the pH levels, clean the pool, and then cover it securely. You may also want to lower the water levels and add antifreeze to the pipes to prevent freezing.
High-quality patio furniture can be a significant investment, so it’s essential to protect it from the elements. If you don’t have room to store it inside, invest in some good quality, water-resistant covers. Make sure the furniture is clean and dry before covering it for the season.
Your vegetable garden may still have some produce ready for harvest. Make sure to pick the last of your seasonal vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and zucchinis. You can use these in recipes immediately or preserve them for use during the winter.
Last but not least, consider a general yard cleanup. This includes tasks like cleaning out the gutters, trimming back trees and bushes, and checking for any needed repairs in fences or pathways. A thorough cleanup in the fall can prevent more significant problems when winter storms hit.
While the tasks to prepare your backyard for fall might seem numerous, taking the time to perform these steps will save you a lot of trouble in the long run. Plus, a well-maintained backyard is more inviting and enjoyable, even as the temperatures start to dip. So put on a cozy sweater, grab a rake, and let’s welcome the beauty of autumn into our homes!