Winterizing Your Real Estate Investment
Posted by [email protected] on Oct. 17, 2016 / On The Job / Subscribe 0
Seasonal Color
Seasonal color is a must. Alyssum, Cyclamen, Ornamental Cabbage, Pansies, Snapdragons, and Violas thrive in cooler temperatures. These attractive plants will provide pops of color while shrubs and trees go dormant.
New Plantings
If the addition of new shrubs and trees is desired, winter is the time to plant! While there may not be much growth above ground, new plants will be growing extensive root systems in preparation to burst forth in spring. Allowing plants to establish over the winter months will ensure that they thrive throughout the heat of summer.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing existing trees, shrubs, and lawns (as well as new additions) during the winter is the recipe for success once things begin to warm back up. This will encourage additional healthy root growth, and allow plants to store up food for spring. Your professional landscaping crew will know the right types of fertilizers to apply, as they vary by season. Now is also a great time to have lawns aerated.
Mulch
As things start to get really chilly, make sure to have all beds dressed with a fresh layer of mulch. This will help protect plant roots from freezing temperatures, regulate soil moisture, and keep the growth of weeds to a minimum. Also, make sure to have irrigation systems checked, insulated, and make sure your landscaping crew is on standby with Frost Cloth. Have the irrigation timer adjusted to prevent overwatering.
Darker Earlier
With days getting shorter and with Daylight Savings Time, do not forget to have accent lighting timers adjusted. With the sun setting at an earlier time, exterior lighting needs to come on sooner to give the maximum effect and provide security during the long winter nights. Holiday lighting is another great addition that can be installed to give enjoyment to families and neighbors.
Pest Control
Pest control becomes much easier as things cool down, but they never leave us completely. The application of Dormant Oils and other insecticides can help eliminate remaining bugs and prevent their return in the spring. Having irrigation system timers adjusted will further prevent standing water, the breeding ground for mosquitoes.
While things may slow down during the winter, there is always something that can be done in the garden. Following these guidelines will help ensure your landscape looks its best, outdoor space can be enjoyed throughout the cooler weather, any winter-related damages are prevented, and your real estate investment will be poised for a great spring.
Article provided by Gary Moss, owner of Moss Landscaping. Moss Landscaping is a full-service landscaping company specializing in commercial and residential landscape design, drainage, hydro jetting, irrigation, plant installation, lighting, masonry, concrete work and outdoor structures.
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