What Landscaping Maintenance Needs to Be Done in the Fall?

What Landscaping Maintenance Needs to Be Done in the Fall?

Fall is a kind of in-between season. Crisp mornings, golden leaves, and the last big chance to get your landscape in shape before winter rolls in. If you’re managing a larger property, you already know: skipping fall maintenance now usually means bigger (and more expensive) problems later.

Looking for landscapers near me in Healdsburg to help you through the fall? Let’s keep it simple with an easy step-by-step rundown of the most important fall landscaping tasks, and a few pro tips to make the job easier.

Leaves and Debris

Fallen leaves look pretty for about five minutes…  then they start suffocating your lawn, attracting pests, and spreading disease.

  • Rake or mulch: Instead of bagging everything, mulch leaves with your mower. It’s like giving your lawn a natural snack.
  • Clear gutters and drains: No one wants water backups or hardscape damage.
  • Tidy garden beds: Removing old plant debris keeps insects and mold from sticking around.

👉 Overwhelmed? Local landscapers in Healdsburg can handle seasonal cleanups quickly and efficiently.

Prune and Trim Strategically

Fall is prime time for shaping up trees, shrubs, and perennials.

  • Cut back perennials: Say goodbye to dead stems so spring growth comes back strong.
  • Shape hedges: Keeps everything looking neat and prevents storm damage.
  • Inspect trees: Look for weak branches that could snap in a storm.

Thinking about bigger changes? This is also a great season to revisit your landscape design in Sonoma County, ideal timing for fresh plantings and new layouts.

Aerate, Seed, and Feed Your Lawn

After summer, your soil is tired and compacted. Show it some love:

  • Aerate: Let air, water, and nutrients get down to the roots.
  • Overseed: Fill in bare patches and keep your turf thick.
  • Fertilize: A fall-specific blend will help roots power through the cold months.

If your lawn sees heavy foot traffic, this step is non-negotiable.

Prep Irrigation and Water Systems

We may not get Midwest-style winters in Sonoma County, but irrigation systems still need attention.

  • Check for leaks: Small leaks now = big repairs later.
  • Winterize: Drain or blow out lines if frost is in the forecast.
  • Adjust timers: Cut back watering as the rainy season kicks in.

Not sure where to start? Inspired Landscapes is certified in water management, we’ll make sure your system is winter-ready.

Mulch and Protect Plants

Mulch is more than a finishing touch. Besides looking pretty, this stuff works as insulation for your soil. Here’s some tips to use it right:

  • Spread 2–3 inches around trees, shrubs, and perennials.
  • Wrap young trees or use guards to protect against frost and critters.
  • Cover tender plants with frost cloths to shield them from chilly nights.

Refresh Hardscapes and Outdoor Features

Don’t forget your patios, pathways, and outdoor living areas.

  • Sweep and pressure wash: Prevent moss buildup and slipping hazards.
  • Seal stone or wood: Extend the life of decks and hardscape surfaces.
  • Check lighting: With shorter days, ensure pathways and entryways are well lit.

Start Spring Strong with Inspired Landscaping

Fall landscaping is prep work for a vibrant spring. Every task, from raking leaves to adjusting irrigation, helps your property thrive year-round.

And here’s the good news: you don’t have to do it all alone. Inspired Landscapes specializes in Sonoma County landscape design, maintenance, and water-wise irrigation. Whether it’s a seasonal cleanup or a full redesign, our team brings the expertise, and the extra hands, to get the job done right.

📞 Call us at (707) 395-7474 or contact us online to schedule your fall landscaping service today.