The nights are getting chilly again, which is a warning for most of us lawn and garden enthusiasts: time to winterize the outdoor areas of your home. You won't have to put a tarp over them or anything, unless you're a Florida orange grower, but you should take proper precautions before the snow flies.
First, store your lawn furniture, especially if it's wood-stained (a finish that will weather and that some find unattractive unless they like the "rustic" look).
It's also time to put away any décor pieces you may have out for seasonal planters, including those very fragile mirror balls. Even terra cotta pots, if they aren't glazed, can break during a freeze, so store all such planter items away in an exposure-free shelter. Store away all fertilizers and insecticides too, in a child-and-pet-safe storage place.
Now concentrate on the lawn equipment. You can give your lawn a final trim and edging before putting away your lawnmower, rotary tiller/edger and weed-cutter, but be sure to drain the fuel from your lawn care equipment, or put in a fuel "conditioner" to keep the gasoline winterized if you don't want to siphon and store it.
This is also a great time to remove and sharpen blades for next spring. Remember to spray them with oil before replacing to keep them rust free during the winter months.
Just like your car, your lawn equipment will be better off for a good washing and drying with soap and towels. Be sure to change both oil and oil filter in each machine.
The lawn itself may not need much care, especially if you've been conscientious enough to keep it well groomed in the summer months. You might want to get a head start on growth and greenery for next season if you're sure you're about to be socked in with the first heavy seasonal moisture.
Before the first storm is the ideal time to apply that last spread of autumnal fertilizer, but do so only if you can get it down just before the rain or snow starts to fall. If you mis-time it and things stay dry for a while longer, make sure you water the lawn sufficiently to let the fertilizer soak in and work over the winter months.
Now drain those garden hoses and wrap and store them in your shelter. Finally, turn off the outside taps at the water source, just to avoid a pipe freeze.
Now relax and enjoy a cozy winter!
