Fall in Texas looks a little different than it does up north. As the weather cools off from the summer heat, homeowners still need to stay ahead with some seasonal upkeep. From caring for your lawn to clearing out gutters, these simple tasks can make a big difference in keeping your property in top condition.
Keep reading to explore 15 essential fall clean-up checklists designed with your
Texas homes in mind, especially for landowners looking to plan for their new dream home.
Key Takeaways
- Rake leaves and clear your yard to keep your lawn healthy during fall.
- Fertilize late in the season to strengthen grass for spring growth.
- Prune lightly and water trees to protect plants through cooler months.
- Clear gutters and store outdoor furniture before winter hits.
1. Rake and Remove Fallen Leaves
Many homeowners in Texas see their yards fill up with fallen leaves once cooler temperatures arrive. While they may look festive, wet leaves, as well as decomposing leaves, can hurt your lawn’s health. These leaves block sunlight and air from reaching the grass roots. By raking leaves and cleaning up your yard, you can prevent compacted soil, pest problems, and other issues that could harm your lawn.
2. Cut Back Perennials and Beds
As cooler temperatures come, many perennials and ornamental grasses can make your yard look messy. Cutting them back can help prepare your plants for the next season and also promote stronger spring growth. Cleaning up perennial beds also reduces pest problems and keeps your landscape looking tidy during the cold winter months.
3. Prune Trees and Shrubs
Pruning trees and shrubs during the fall season is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn. By removing dead branches and shaping the growth of your trees, you can help improve the look of your curb and keep your trees ready for winter weather.
Pruning at the wrong time can also harm your tree growth, so it’s important to know which plants should be pruned now and which ones should wait until spring. If you’re not sure when to prune, you can ask your local professionals to help you choose the right tree and the right time to prune.
4. Check Irrigation Systems
When temperatures drop in Texas, your lawn and plants might not need as much water as in other seasons. However, it’s still important to check your irrigation system. Proper checks can help ensure that sprinklers and lines work properly so your lawn stays healthy without wasting water.
Depending on the amount of rainfall, many homeowners adjust their irrigation systems or even shut them down for the winter season. This spring cleaning activity can help protect your grass, prevent soil erosion, and keep your yard ready for the season.
5. Add Seasonal Enhancements
Fall is a great time to give your lawn and garden beds a fresh look. You can plant flowers like pansies or violas that add color when other plants slow down. Also, laying sod in cooler weather helps grass roots grow strong, while fresh mulch or wood chips helps protect soil and boost curb appeal. Some homeowners also enjoy adding holiday lights to give their property even more charm before winter weather arrives.
6. Refresh Mulch and Soil
Adding fresh mulch and wood chips during the fall is one of the simplest ways to protect your garden beds, flower beds, and perennial beds. Mulch keeps the soil from drying, and it also reduces soil erosion. Plus, it protects the plants during cold weather. These winter home maintenance tips can go a long way in making your yard look great.
7. Clear Out Garden Beds
Cleaning out garden beds and flower beds involves removing weeds, fallen leaves, and plant debris. This helps prevent wintering insects and diseases from harming your lawn’s health. With the beds cleared and clean, your yard looks tidy and stays healthier through the winter months.
8. Remove Weeds Thoroughly
As cooler temperatures draw closer, weeds can spread quickly and cause problems for your lawn and other plants. A lot of homeowners overlook this step, but weed removal makes your lawn grooming and care easier in the next season. Getting rid of weeds before winter dormancy helps to prevent pest problems and stops them from coming back stronger in spring.
9. Keep Trees and Shrubs Hydrated
Even though Texas winters are mild, winter weather can still be dry and stressful for plants. Keeping your trees and shrubs watered during the fall season can help their root systems and soil stay strong for the winter. With a good dose of hydration, your plants will have fewer problems when the temperatures drop.
10. Continue Mowing the Lawn
Fall is not the time to stop mowing your lawn. Cutting your grass regularly in cooler temperatures helps to control weeds, prevent matting, and support lawn health. A well-trimmed lawn resists fungus and pest problems, keeping your yard ready for the next growing season.
11. Empty Porch Pots and Containers
Cold winter months can damage outdoor pots, especially pots made of clay or terra cotta. Emptying the containers, cleaning them, and storing them upside down in a dry place helps prevent cracks. You can also cover them with a tarp or store them in a shed until the next season. This simple step protects your pots and keeps them ready for spring plants.
12. Clean and Store Garden Tools
Before winter sets in, it’s a good idea to clean and store your gardening tools. Wipe the dirt from your shovels, pruners, and other tools, then sharpen your blades and oil them to prevent rust. This task helps protect your gear and keeps your lawn care simple in spring.
13. Clean or Replace Gutters
Gutters play a big role in moving rainwater away from your home, but they can also get clogged with fallen leaves and debris during the fall season. Cleaning them out helps prevent water damage, soil erosion, and pest problems around your yard. If your gutters are old or broken, replacing them now can protect your home when cooler temperatures and rain return.
14. Store Outdoor Furniture
Your outdoor furniture can wear down quickly if left outside through the cold weather and heavy rain. Moving tables, chairs, or cushions into storage keeps them safe and extends their life. If you don’t have indoor space, waterproof covers can protect your furniture from winter weather.
15. Fertilize Your Lawn
Fertilizing your lawn helps the grass roots grow strong during winter. Even when grass growth slows down, the roots are still active and need nutrients to stay healthy. Adding fertilizer now supports the lawn’s health and gives you a healthier lawn in the next growing season.
Protect Your Property’s Value With Smart Fall Clean Up
A smart clean-up routine while still in fall keeps your yard tidy, protects your home, and sets the stage for a healthier lawn next spring. By taking simple steps now, you can give your plants, trees, and outdoor spaces the best chance to thrive through the cooler months.
See how SRC Land can guide you with tips, resources, and local insight to keep your Texas property in great shape season after season. This checklist can come in handy, especially if you plan on buying land for sale in Texas. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect Texas property, you can count on SRC Land to help you find it.
