Getting Your Home Ready for Winter

It’s getting chillier now as Summer has finally left us and Fall is in full swing. If you have a garden there are a few chores you’ll need to do to prepare the garden for winter.  Here’s a list of some of them:

It’s getting chillier now as Summer has finally left us and Fall is in full swing. If you have a garden there are a few chores you’ll need to do to prepare the garden for winter.  Here’s a list of some of them:

Planning for a lovely spring?

If you are thinking about spring flowers, now is the time to buy and plant spring bulbs like tulips, narcissus (daffodils), hyacinths, and more.  

Problems with skunks or raccoons digging up your garden?

Now, especially when it’s rainy, is a great time to add nematodes to your lawn.  They are microscopic worms that travel under the grass and kill the grubs that skunks and raccoons are looking for.  They are usually found in a garden center and need to be refrigerated so you’ll need to ask for them.  Soak the package contents in water and use a hose sprayer to distribute them on your lawn.  

Loose branches and overgrown shrubs

You’ll want to take down any branches that are low hanging or overgrown that are close to your home.  Prune overgrown shrubs.

Drain your garden hose

You’ll want to drain your hose, disconnect it and store it away for the winter.  While you are doing that, be sure to turn off the water supply inside, and drain the pipes so they don’t freeze as our temperatures drop.

Organize and store your tools

It’s a good idea to clean off your garden tools and store them away for the winter.  If your garage needs organizing it’s a good time to do it before it becomes too cold.  De-cluttering a garage is just as rewarding as de-cluttering a home!

Fall Maintenance Checklist 

Inside the house

• Change furnace filter

• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors

• Remove window screens and check for drafts

• Check that any door and window seals are secure

Outside the house

• Fertilize your lawn in early September

• Fertilize your lawn again mid November

• Bring in potted plants or empty planters

• Cover your BBQ or grill

• Check roof to see if roof repairs are needed

• Put away and cover garden furniture

• Cover air conditioning units

• Remove leaves and protect vulnerable shrubs and plants

• Ensure eaves troughs and downspouts are not blocked

• Turn off outside taps and drain lines