As the snow falls and the ground freezes as old man winter rolls in, there are some necessary precautions that all landscapers of all levels need to take to ensure they keep their lawn in the best shape possible.
Mulching, as advised in previous entries, should be number one on any landscaping to-do list in the winter. It not only keeps grounds looking fresh, neat and clean but also keeps the roots of all plants and flower beds warm during the winter, ensuring they don’t die off due to the cold temperatures and will bloom readily in the spring.
If snow fall is heavy or if a snow plow is needed, be sure to mark all hardscaping as well as landscaping. This will not only keep snow plows from damaging lawns but will also protect holiday decorations that might have been covered. Marking these with pole or with marking tape will keep lawns safe and damage free.
Many landscapers do not think to remove and store garden hoses in the winter, a step that should be taken even in areas were temperatures are moderate. Garden hoses are usually attached to a house faucet and if temperatures drop to freezing and water is in the pipe, it could freeze and burst the pipe. This would not only do damage to water pipes but could also cause water damage inside the home. Sprinkler systems should also be flushed and drained as the winter chill sets in.
Garden decor such pots, lawn equipment, plant stakes and hardscaping (such as statutes, items that are able to be mobile) should be taken inside and protected. If they freeze over, they could break or crack.
Driveways and sidewalks that are exposed should be continuously checked for cracks. Cracks that aren’t caulked or monitored could expand, especially in climates with regular snow fall and freezing temperatures.
Lastly, outdoor furniture. Unless temperatures stay moderate and/or warm, bring inside all outdoor furniture. This will not only keep lawns from looking silly (snow covered beach chairs, anyone?) but will also protect them as well, keeping them crack and damage free from the cold temperatures and ready to use again in the spring.
