Prep Your Yard for a Stunning Autumn with These Tips

As the long, sun-drenched days of August begin to shorten, it’s easy to think that gardening season is winding down. But late summer is the perfect time to give your yard some attention. A little effort now can help your landscape recover from the summer heat and prepare for a vibrant, beautiful autumn.

1. Tidy Up the Garden Beds: Start by deadheading your flowering plants. Trim away dead or yellowing leaves and branches on your shrubs to improve air circulation and prevent disease. This simple task keeps your garden looking neat and channels the plant's energy into new growth rather than seed production. Also, a thorough weeding session will also give your existing plants more access to water, sunlight, and nutrients, helping them thrive as the season changes.
2. Care for Your Lawn: Late summer or early fall is the ideal time to aerate. This process involves creating small holes in the soil to alleviate compaction. After aerating, consider overseeding. Spreading new grass seed over your existing lawn helps fill in bare patches and creates a thicker, more resilient turf. Adjust your watering schedule to provide deep, infrequent waterings.
3. Plant Autumn Blooms: Late summer is a great time to introduce plants that will shine in the fall. Many perennials hit their stride in late summer and fall. Consider adding mums, asters, and goldenrod to your garden beds or containers. Pansies and violas are excellent choices for adding color to your fall landscape, too!