Winter can be a challenging season for lawns and landscapes. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures often wreak havoc on turf, trees, shrubs, and other outdoor plants. However, by staying proactive and vigilant, landscaping professionals can help homeowners, schools, and municipalities ensure their green spaces remain healthy and vibrant when spring arrives.
Prepping for winter not only protects their investments but also enhances your reputation as a trusted expert in landscape care.
Preparing Lawns for Winter Dormancy
A well-maintained lawn is the foundation of any landscape, and winter preparation is key to keeping grass healthy through the colder months. Here are some tips:
- Raking leaves and clearing debris from the turf helps prevent smothering, which can lead to bare patches or stunted grass growth in the spring.
- The final mow of the season is critical. Adjusting cutting heights shorter than the growing season standard will help minimize pests and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
- Before the first frost, aerate compacted soil to improve airflow and water penetration, then apply a slow-release fertilizer. While the lawn won’t actively use the nutrients during dormancy, they’ll be ready for quick absorption when temperatures rise.
- Winter weeds like chickweed can be surprisingly aggressive in cold weather. Incorporating a pre-emergent weed control plan can help suppress these invaders and keep lawns looking pristine year-round.
Protecting Trees and Shrubs from Winter Damage
Trees and shrubs are the anchors of a landscape, providing beauty, structure, and shade. To safeguard them against winter stress, apply a protective layer of mulch around their bases. Doing so will stabilize soil temperature and retain moisture during dry winter months.
Pruning is another essential task. The late dormant season is an excellent time to trim most plants, as it minimizes exposure to the elements. Focus on removing dead or weak branches, especially those that could snap under the weight of snow or ice.
Supporting Public Green Spaces
For schools, parks, and municipalities, winter preparation is equally important. Public green spaces endure heavy foot traffic year-round, and ensuring their resilience benefits entire communities. Focus on tasks like aeration and fertilization to maintain turf health and apply mulch in playgrounds and around trees to combat erosion. Snow and ice removal plans should prioritize eco-friendly methods to protect plants and minimize environmental harm.
Combatting the Hidden Threat of Winter Weeds
Weeds may seem dormant in winter, but they can silently invade and overtake a property. Cold-tolerant species like common chickweed thrive in low temperatures. Regularly inspecting properties for emerging weeds and addressing them promptly — whether through hand-pulling or targeted treatments — can save significant effort down the line.
Weeds are triggered by soil temperature fluctuations, and even brief warm spells during winter can activate their growth. Stay proactive with a winter weed management strategy to keep landscapes looking their best.
Choosing Low-Maintenance Winter Plants
For those seeking year-round appeal with minimal effort, recommend hardy, low-maintenance plants that require little intervention. When tending to their landscapes, group plants with similar care needs together to simplify watering, pruning, and mulching — a proven approach that will save everyone time.
Educating Your Customers on the Cost of Inaction
One of the most significant challenges landscaping professionals face is conveying the importance of winter preparation to customers. Many homeowners don’t realize that neglecting their landscapes during the colder months can lead to costly repairs or replacements in the spring.
Educate your customers on how winter care ensures their lawns and gardens thrive year-round. For example, heavy snow accumulation can damage branches, potentially requiring extensive pruning or even removal in the months ahead.
Looking Ahead to Spring
Landscaping is a year-round effort, and winter preparation is an investment in your customers’ future enjoyment of their outdoor spaces. By taking a proactive approach, you’ll set their landscapes up for success and position yourself as a trusted partner in maintaining beautiful, healthy spaces.
Whether serving homeowners or managing public green spaces, thoughtful winter maintenance ensures that lawns, gardens, and trees emerge strong and ready for the growing season.