As the vibrant colours of autumn begin to take over the landscape in Saskatchewan, it’s time to start thinking about fall yard care. Proper preparation now can make a big difference in ensuring your lawn, garden, and trees are healthy as they head into the colder months and ready to thrive come spring. Here are some essential tips for fall yard care in Saskatchewan.
Raking and Removing Leaves
While the sight of leaves falling may be beautiful, leaving them on your lawn can cause damage. A thick layer of leaves can smother the grass, blocking sunlight and trapping moisture, which leads to mold growth and dead patches. Regularly rake up leaves, especially during dry days, to keep your lawn healthy. If you're an eco-conscious gardener, consider using a mulching mower to shred the leaves and add them back into the soil as natural compost.
Fertilize for Winter
Fall is the ideal time to fertilize your lawn. As the temperature drops, grass roots continue to grow and absorb nutrients, which helps them survive the harsh Saskatchewan winter. Apply a slow-release fertilizer that is high in potassium and phosphorus to promote strong roots and prepare your lawn for the colder months ahead. This will also help your grass get a head start in spring.
Aeration
Aerating your lawn is a great way to relieve soil compaction and improve the flow of water, oxygen, and nutrients to the grass roots. This is especially beneficial if your lawn has seen heavy foot traffic during the summer months. Fall aeration creates pathways for nutrients to reach the roots more efficiently before the ground freezes.
Overseeding
Fall is the perfect time to overseed your lawn, especially if you have thin or bare patches. The cooler weather and moisture levels in the soil create optimal conditions for grass seed germination. Choose a seed mix suitable for Saskatchewan's climate, and remember to water the lawn regularly after overseeding until the grass starts to sprout.
Pruning Trees and Shrubs
Now is the time to prune your trees and shrubs, particularly any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. This helps prevent breakage during winter storms and encourages healthy growth in the spring. For young trees, consider wrapping them in burlap to protect them from frost damage and cold winds.
Cutting Back Perennials
Cut back perennial plants once they have finished blooming for the season. Removing dead or decaying foliage reduces the risk of pests and diseases overwintering in your garden. However, some plants, like ornamental grasses or seedheads, can be left intact to provide winter interest and shelter for wildlife.
Winterizing Your Garden
Remove any dead plants and vegetables from your garden beds to avoid attracting pests. You can also apply a layer of mulch to protect the soil from erosion and freezing temperatures. If you have delicate perennials or roses, consider using burlap or specialized plant covers to shield them from winter’s icy grip.
Draining and Storing Hoses
Before the temperatures drop below freezing, be sure to drain your garden hoses and disconnect them from outdoor faucets to prevent them from bursting. Store your hoses in a dry place, and consider covering your outdoor taps to protect them from the cold.
Final Mowing
Before the snow starts falling, give your lawn one final mow. Lower your mower blade so the grass is about 2 to 2.5 inches tall. Shorter grass is less likely to mat down under snow, which can help prevent snow mold come spring.
Prepare Your Tools for Winter
Lastly, clean and store all your gardening tools and equipment. Sharpen blades, clean off dirt and rust, and store them in a dry place to avoid damage over the winter months.
Taking the time to prepare your yard now will pay off when Saskatchewan’s unpredictable winter settles in. With a little effort this fall, you'll have a healthy, vibrant yard ready to thrive when spring finally arrives.