### Fall Landscape Preparation (September-November)

Renewal Season: Preparing for Dormancy and Next Year's Growth

Fall is the most important season for landscape maintenance, establishing plant health for winter survival and setting the stage for vigorous spring growth.

September: Cool-Season Revival

Fall Lawn Renovation (Best ROI Season)

1. Cool-Season Grass Restoration Fall Seeding Program: - Core aerate compacted areas - Overseed thin areas with quality seed blend - Apply starter fertilizer with new seed - Maintain consistent moisture for germination Benefits of Fall Seeding: - Optimal growing conditions (cool, moist) - Reduced weed competition - Full season for establishment before summer stress - 70-90% success rate vs. 30-50% for spring seeding

2. Warm-Season Grass Transition - Reduce watering as growth slows - Apply final fertilizer application - Plan overseeding with cool-season grass (optional) - Begin reducing mowing frequency

Fall Planting Season (Optimal for Most Plants)

1. Tree and Shrub Planting Fall Planting Advantages: - Root development during cool weather - Reduced transplant shock and water stress - Full growing season for establishment - Better survival rates (80-95% vs. 60-75% spring)

Planting Timeline: - Plant 6-8 weeks before hard freeze - Evergreens: Plant by mid-October (northern climates) - Deciduous plants: Can plant until ground freezes - Continue watering until ground freezes

October: Winter Preparation

Comprehensive Fall Cleanup (Time: 2-3 days)

1. Leaf Management Strategy Leaf Disposal Options: - Compost leaves for soil amendment (free fertilizer) - Mulch directly around plants (2-3 inch layer) - Municipal pickup or composting programs - Shred and leave on lawn (if not too thick) Equipment for Efficient Cleanup: - Leaf blower for fast collection: $150-$500 - Mulching mower for shredding: $300-$800 - Compost bins for processing: $100-$400 - Tarps and containers for transport: $50-$150

2. Plant Protection and Preparation Winter Protection Tasks: - Wrap tender plants in burlap - Apply anti-desiccant spray to evergreens - Stake newly planted trees - Mulch around plants for root protection

Irrigation System Winterization

1. System Shutdown Protocol Winterization Steps: - Turn off water supply to irrigation system - Drain all water from pipes and sprinkler heads - Blow out system with compressed air (professional recommended) - Insulate above-ground components - Store removable components indoors

Cost of Professional Winterization: $75-$150 Cost of freeze damage if not winterized: $500-$2,000

November: Final Preparations

Last-Call Maintenance Tasks

1. Final Fertilization Program Winter Fertilizer Application: - Apply high-potassium fertilizer to strengthen plants - Use slow-release fertilizer for spring availability - Apply to lawn 4-6 weeks before hard freeze - Focus on root development rather than top growth

2. Tool and Equipment Storage - Clean and oil all tools before storage - Service and store power equipment properly - Drain and store hoses and sprinklers - Organize and inventory supplies for spring