Fall Garden Care: How to Prepare Your Yard for Winter Weather

8.21.2023 | Category: Article

As the summer sun starts to wane, and the crisp autumn breeze sets in, it's time to prepare your garden and landscape for the upcoming winter season. 

Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or just starting your gardening journey, taking the right steps now will ensure your outdoor space thrives come spring. It can also protect your home from harsh winter weather. From small tasks to big projects, here's a comprehensive guide on how to get your yard winter-ready, protect your home from natural disasters, and explore financial options for larger endeavors.

How to Prepare Gardens and Landscapes for Winter with Simple Care

Pruning and Trimming: Begin by pruning and trimming shrubs, trees, and perennials. Removing dead or diseased branches not only improves the overall appearance of your garden but also prevents potential damage from falling limbs during winter storms.

Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around trees, shrubs, and flowerbeds to insulate the soil and protect the root systems from extreme temperature fluctuations. Mulch also helps retain moisture and control weed growth.

Bulb Planting: Fall is the perfect time to plant spring-blooming bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. These bulbs will lie dormant during winter and burst into colorful blooms as soon as the weather warms up.

Protecting Sensitive Plants: If you have delicate plants that won't survive the winter outdoors, consider moving them into a greenhouse or bringing them indoors. If that's not feasible, cover them with burlap or other protective material to shield them from frost and cold winds.

Lawn Care: Keep mowing your lawn until the grass stops growing. Aerate and overseed the lawn to promote healthy growth in the spring. Rake up leaves regularly to prevent them from smothering the grass.

How to Prepare for Harsh Winter Weather and Natural Disasters

Fire Season Preparation: If you live in an area prone to wildfires, create a defensible space around your home. Clear away dry leaves, dead vegetation, and debris from your property. Trim tree branches and shrubs that are close to buildings, and ensure your gutters are free of debris.

Hurricane Preparedness: In hurricane-prone regions, secure outdoor furniture and decorations. Trim weak or overhanging branches that could pose a threat during strong winds. Consider installing storm shutters for added protection to your home.

Winter Storm Readiness: Winter storms can bring heavy snowfall and ice accumulation. Inspect your roof, gutters, and downspouts to ensure they're in good condition. Have a supply of rock salt or ice melt to prevent slippery walkways.

How to Keep Your Financial Options Open Should You Need Funds for a Rainy Day

Automate Your Savings: Set up an automatic transfer from your checking account to your emergency fund on a regular basis. Treating it as a monthly bill ensures that you're consistently contributing to your fund.

Use Windfalls Wisely: Whenever you receive unexpected money, like a bonus or tax refund, consider putting a portion of it into your emergency fund. This will give your savings a boost without affecting your regular budget.

Review Homeowners Insurance: Before winter arrives, review your homeowner's insurance policy to ensure it provides adequate coverage for potential winter-related damages. Consider adding coverage for natural disasters specific to your area.

Consider a HELOC as an Emergency Line of Credit 

A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) can serve as a valuable emergency line of credit, providing homeowners with a flexible and accessible financial resource during unexpected situations. 

As interest is only accrued on the amount borrowed, a HELOC can offer a cost-effective and prudent solution for everything from preparing your landscape for the winter, to preparing your finances for emergencies, giving homeowners peace of mind and financial stability when they need it most.

If you're a homeowner looking to secure your financial future and be prepared for any eventuality, don't hesitate to contact Mutual of Omaha Mortgage. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process and help you unlock the potential of your home's equity. 

With a little planning and effort, you can ensure your garden and home are well-prepared for the winter season. By following these tips, you'll not only protect your outdoor space but also safeguard your home from potentially harsh conditions.