As temperatures drop and leaves begin to fall, commercial property managers face a critical transition period. Proper fall preparation and winter maintenance aren't just about keeping your property looking presentable, they're essential for protecting your investment, ensuring safety, and avoiding costly spring repairs. Here's your comprehensive guide to managing commercial landscapes through the colder months.
Why Fall Preparation Matters
Fall is your last opportunity to set your landscape up for success before winter's harsh conditions arrive. The work you do now determines whether you'll face expensive emergency repairs in February or enjoy a smooth transition into spring. Think of fall maintenance as preventive medicine for your landscape.
Essential Fall Tasks
- Lawn Care: September through November is prime time for strengthening your turf. Aerate compacted areas to improve drainage and root health, then overseed any bare or thin spots. A fall fertilizer application helps roots store nutrients for winter dormancy. As the season progresses, gradually raise mowing heights and schedule one final cut, leaving grass at 2-3 inches to prevent snow mold. Most importantly, stay on top of leaf removal—thick leaf layers suffocate turf and create ideal conditions for disease.
- Preparing Plants and Trees: Walk your property to identify and prune any dead, diseased, or damaged branches before winter storms turn them into hazards. Fall is actually an ideal time for planting new trees and shrubs, as cooler temperatures allow roots to establish before winter. Apply 2-4 inches of fresh mulch around beds to insulate roots and retain moisture.
- Water Management: Schedule professional irrigation system maintenance before your first hard freeze. Drain and insulate backflow preventers and mark sprinkler head locations to protect them from snow removal equipment. Clean gutters and downspouts thoroughly, and ensure all drainage systems are clear and functioning properly.
Winter Maintenance Priorities
- Snow & Ice Management. Once winter arrives, your focus shifts to safety and damage prevention. Snow and ice management becomes the primary concern. Develop a clear plan for clearing walkways, parking areas, and building entrances within your contractual timeframes. Strategic application of de-icing materials prevents slip hazards while minimizing environmental impact and plant damage. Keep fire hydrants, utility meters, and emergency exits accessible at all times.
- Plant Protection. Wrap vulnerable evergreens with burlap and apply anti-desiccant sprays to prevent winter burn and help plants and trees deal with winter weather. After heavy snowfalls, gently brush snow off branches—never shake or hit them, as frozen branches are brittle and easily damaged. Monitor for animal damage, especially deer browsing and rodent gnawing on young trees.
- Keep an Eye Out. Regular site inspections help you catch problems early. After each storm, walk your property looking for damage, drainage issues, and safety hazards. Document everything with photographs and detailed logs. This documentation protects you from liability claims and helps identify areas needing spring attention.
Successful commercial landscape management requires a proactive approach. The time and resources invested in fall preparation directly reduce winter emergencies and spring repair costs. By following this checklist, you'll maintain a safe, attractive property while protecting your landscape investment through the challenging winter months.
Start planning now—your future self will thank you when spring arrives and your landscape bounces back quickly while others are still dealing with winter damage.
PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY WITH EXPERT MAINTENANCE FROM DAVEY – CONTACT YOUR LOCAL REP TODAY!
