Spring growth begins long before warm weather arrives. What you do in December and January plays a big role in how your landscape looks once the seasons change. With a little planning now, you can enjoy healthier plants, greener grass, and better curb appeal in the months ahead.

Here is your guide to what is worth doing now and what you can save for spring.

1. DO: Refresh Mulch and Clean Up Beds

Mulch insulates roots, reduces weeds, and helps maintain even soil moisture. Winter cleanup removes dead growth and makes space for new buds in spring.

2. DO: Adjust Irrigation for Winter Needs

Winter watering needs are much lower. Adjust your controller to prevent overwatering and run a quick system check for leaks or coverage issues.

3. DO: Prune Select Trees and Shrubs

Winter is a great time to prune many species because the plant structure is easier to see and pruning stress is lower.

Avoid pruning spring flowering shrubs until after they bloom.

4. DO: Plan Hardscape or Installation Projects

Winter is an excellent time to schedule:

• Stone edging
• Walkways
• Patios
• Planting bed expansions

Crews can work efficiently and you will be ready for spring growth.

5. SKIP: Fertilizing Warm Season Lawns

St. Augustine and Bermuda are dormant in winter. Fertilizer will not help right now and can actually cause issues. Wait until soil temperatures rise in spring.

6. SKIP: Heavy Planting

While some winter annuals thrive, most long term shrubs and trees prefer planting in early spring or fall. Use winter for planning, not heavy installation.

A small investment of winter maintenance pays off with stronger growth, fewer issues, and better curb appeal in March and April.

Want help getting your yard ready for spring? Request your No Charge Estimate from Buchek Landscape & Irrigation today.