As the vibrant leaves of fall begin to drop across Maryland, it’s the perfect time to prepare your yard for the colder months ahead. Fall cleanup isn’t just about keeping things tidy—it’s a crucial step in protecting your lawn, landscaping, and home from winter damage. A proper fall yard cleanup helps ensure healthy growth in spring, improves curb appeal, and can prevent costly repairs down the road.
Ready to dive in? Use this comprehensive checklist to guide your seasonal yard maintenance in Maryland.
1. Lawn Care Basics
Your lawn needs a little extra attention before it goes dormant. These key fall lawn care tasks help strengthen roots and reduce problems in the spring:
- Mow your lawn one last time – Lower your mower height slightly (2.5–3″) for the final cut to reduce disease risk.
- Aerate and overseed – This loosens compacted soil and gives grass seed the best chance to take root before winter.
- Fertilize in the fall – The best time to fertilize your lawn in Maryland is in early to mid-fall to nourish roots over winter.
- Remove leaves regularly – Avoid smothering your lawn. Mulch small amounts of leaves or rake and bag them.
2. Garden & Landscaping Cleanup
Get your flower beds and gardens prepped for the off-season:
- Cut back perennials – Trim down plants like hostas, daylilies, and ornamental grasses.
- Remove dead annuals – Pull out faded summer blooms and clear debris.
- Add mulch – A fresh layer of mulch insulates plant roots and suppresses weeds.
- Clean garden tools – Wash, sharpen, and store your tools properly to extend their life.
3. Tree & Shrub Maintenance
Fall is an ideal time to inspect and care for your trees and shrubs:
- Prune dead or damaged branches – Prevent breakage from snow or ice.
- Wrap young or delicate trees – Protect them from harsh winter winds and animals.
- Inspect for pests or disease – Treat issues before they worsen over winter.
4. Gutter & Drainage Cleanup
Ignoring your gutters can lead to serious water damage. Make sure to:
- Clean out gutters and downspouts – Remove leaves, twigs, and debris.
- Test drainage flow – Ensure water is moving away from your home’s foundation.
- Prevent ice dams – Blockages can freeze and cause costly roof damage.
5. Outdoor Living Area Prep
Don’t forget your hardscapes and outdoor equipment:
- Clean patios and decks – Power wash and remove mildew.
- Store hoses and shut off water – Prevent frozen pipes.
- Cover or store furniture and grills – Extend the life of your outdoor gear.
Schedule Your Fall Cleanup Early
The earlier you schedule your fall yard services, the better your results will be. Don’t wait until the first frost to take action— our calendar fills up fast!
Want Help With Your Fall Cleanup?
If you’re in Elkridge, Howard County, or nearby areas in Maryland, let Patapsco Valley Lawn & Landscape handle your fall cleanup the right way. Contact us today to book your fall service and give your yard the care it deserves before winter sets in!
