Get Suped up for September: Part 2

In part one we did a quick overview of easy indoor preparations for fall and winter. Here, we'll cover some simple steps to take outdoors that will make the coming seasons more enjoyable when you check them off your list!

Store Your Summer Gear It’s time to bid farewell to summer essentials like the kiddie pool, sprinklers, and beach towels. September is the perfect moment to put away all your summer equipment. For those with in-ground pools, remember to drain, clean, and secure the area for the winter months.

Trim Branches and Brush As September arrives, different regions face different weather risks—some monitor hurricanes, while others watch for wildfires. No matter the hazard, trimming back brush, branches, and debris in your yard can help reduce risks. Dry plant material can fuel wildfires, causing them to spread rapidly, and large branches close to structures can cause damage during strong winds.

Fertilize Your Lawn Before summer ends, give your lawn a final dose of fertilizer. This will help your grass rebound in the spring and show its appreciation.

Drain and Winterize Sprinklers and Irrigation If you live in an area that experiences freezing temperatures during winter, it’s a good time to turn off your outdoor water lines and begin winterizing your garden irrigation system. As temperatures drop in September, freezing risks increase for these lines.

Rake Leaves and Dispose of Mulch It might be tempting to put off cleaning up, but leaving leaves and mulch on your lawn can damage it. Clear away leaves and mulch from your yard and take them to your local green-waste facility.