The Homeowner’s Guide to Seasonal Property Transitions

As the seasons change, our properties require a different approach, which is what it takes to keep them safe, efficient, and very much at their best. From cleaning out gutters and fixing up windows to refreshing the landscaping, each transition brings in its wake a new set of tasks. Seasonal maintenance not only improves curb appeal but also protects your investment by avoiding large repair bills. Here is how to get ready for each time of year, and why professional lawn care in Weigelstown can help you maintain a healthy, vibrant landscape through all four seasons.

Spring: Refresh and Rebuild After Winter

As spring rolls in, so does the ritual of spring cleaning, which is put at the forefront both inside and outside the home. Start by going over your roof, gutters, and siding for damage from ice and snow. Thoroughly clean out gutters and downspouts, which will allow the melted snow and spring rain to pass through easily and, in turn, prevent foundation problems.

Next up is the exterior, which you should go over. Replace that which is worn out of the weather stripping and reapply the caulk around the frames to better insulate. Also wash off the exterior surfaces, power wash the patios, and check the driveways for signs of expansion, which may have occurred during the freeze.

Spring also marks the season for reviving your landscape. Rake out last year’s leaves, prune dead growth, and clean garden edges. This is a time to test your soil’s pH, improve it with compost, and put in new shrubs or perennials.

In spring for your lawn, they see renewal of growth. Remove that which is thatch, aerate the compacted soil, and put down a balanced fertilizer to encourage strong root development. They also see to it that any bare patches are filled in, which will in turn cause the grass to thicken out even before the summer heat arrives.

Summer: Maintain and Protect

Summer is a time of sun and outdoor fun; at the same time, it requires consistent care. Heat, humidity, and pests will quickly take their toll on your home’s health if you don’t stay on top of things.

Check your irrigation systems often for leaks or uneven watering. In the early morning, water your grass and plants, which will better absorb the moisture before the day’s heat causes evaporation. Also note to not overwater, which in turn causes soggy soil and invites fungus and root rot.

In summer they see to it that pest control and weed management are handled properly. Watch for insects, grubs, and unwanted weeds, which compete for your plant’s nutrients. Also, the use of organic and eco-friendly solutions is what they go for.

When it comes to mowing—don't go too short with your lawn. Tall grass shades out soil, reduces moisture loss, and also deters weed growth. Also keep mower blades sharp, which in turn gives clean cuts and prevents disease.

Mulch in your flowerbeds and around trees to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, which in turn will keep your yard looking neat with less effort.

Fall: Prepare and Strengthen

As the temps fall out, it comes the season of prep and repair. First off, do a gutter clean-out to get rid of leaf blockages. Rake and clear out the debris, which may smother the grass over the winter. Go over the roof and see what is loose, and also check that windows and doors are tight to keep the heat in and drafts out.

This at the same time is the best season to improve your lawn health. In the fall when you seed, you fill in thin spots and strengthen root systems, which will do well before winter dormancy. Also do core aeration, which goes along with seeding to improve soil compaction and also better air and water penetration.

Fertilization in the fall is very important. Experts recommend a fertilizer high in potassium, which in turn will promote root development and improve cold resistance. As the season winds down, gradually reduce your mowing height; do not, however, go to extreme shortcuts. A medium height is best for the grass to store nutrients over the winter, which at the same time will also avoid mold issues.

Prune out the dead, plant spring bulbs, and mulch around perennials to protect roots. Put in some time now and see your yard come alive and green in the spring.

Winter: Protect and Plan Ahead

Winter is a time for protecting what you have. Begin by bringing in garden tools and putting away hoses to avoid damage from freezing. Also take in outdoor furniture if you have any, clean it out, and cover it up to make it last longer. Inspect for drafts that come in through your doors, attics, and basements, and add more insulation as needed.

Keep walkways free of snow and ice with pet-safe deicers. Also do regular inspections of your roof, which will help to avoid ice dams that cause water to back up and lead to leaks. At home, maintain moderate humidity levels, which in turn will prevent wood and drywall cracks.

Although grass growth slows in the winter months, it does require care. Steer clear of frozen lawns for which there is traffic, as that causes damage, and also remove large debris or snow piles. Also use winter to sharpen mower blades, service equipment, and plan out next year’s landscaping.

The Year-Round Lawn Care Cycle

A healthy lawn needs year-round care.

• Spring: Aerate, put down fertilizer, and fill in bare spots.

• Summer: Raise the mower deck, use water efficiently, and control weeds.

• Fall: Aerate once more, seed in again, and put down a root-strengthening fertilizer.

• Winter: Reduce activity and keep the lawn free of debris.

Following that cycle will leave your lawn at its best health and prepared for each new season.

For gardeners that require professional attention, local experts in Weigelstown offer lawn care services. Lionscape Lawn Care can design a plan for each property’s soil type, grass variety, and climate conditions. Their professionals do it all, from mowing and fertilization to aeration and winter prep, which in turn will have your lawn thriving all year round.

Final Thoughts

Seasons bring about home transformations, which are more of an investment in your home’s beauty and durability—that is, if you play the game of preparation and adaptation to each season’s specific issues. Thus, by the time the seasons roll around, you will have protected your home from the elements, improved its curbside appeal, and be able to live in a comfortable, well-maintained home all year.

Whether you like to do it yourself or leave it to the professionals, Lionscape Lawn Care pays attention to outdoor spaces all season long. Also, if you are in York County or the surrounding areas, put Lionscape Lawn Care at the top of your list for quality lawn care in Weigelstown through all the seasons of your property’s health.