winter maintenance (december - february)

Trees and shrubs:
- Fertilize trees and shrubs using a balanced fertilizer
- Prune trees as needed to shape and raise the undercarriage
- Prune shrubs to allow for penetration of light and moisture
- Apply dormant oil to shrubs to reduce insect problems during the spring & summer
- Trim crape myrtles and Liriope
- Apply post-emergent weed control as necessary.
- Begin mulch applications toward winter’s end

Lawns:
- Apply coating of lime to warm season turf
- Apply post-emergent weed-control as needed
- Inspect for insects and disease, treating as necessary
- After February 15th, apply pre-emergent weed control to entire lawn

Planted beds (softscapes):
- Remove leaves, weeds, sticks, debris, etc., from planted areas
- Apply post-emergent weed control as needed
- Cut back ornamental winter grasses as needed
- Install spring bulbs by January 15th
- Begin mulch application as weather permits
- After February 15th, apply pre-emergent weed control

Hardscapes, water features, irrigation systems, and outdoor lighting:
- Keep walkways & driveways clear of snow and ice by contracting a dependable service

Additional:
• Continue planning and designing of next year’s landscaping projects
• Begin making decisions about next year’s landscape management and
- maintenance contracts by collecting information and speaking with representatives
- from qualified landscape firms
• Finish any wintertime home-improvement projects

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