While we enjoy a beautiful autumn, every tried-and-true Calgarian knows that Winter is right around the corner. Make sure that you and your property are prepared by tackling these outdoor projects before snow sweeps over the nation:
- Protect your yard equipment with a shed: "a backyard storage shed is an essential addition to your space, ensuring tools and equipment are protected from the harsh conditions of winter. Beyond its utility, a well-designed shed adds visual charm to your landscaping, blending functionality with aesthetics" (Backyard Boss).
- Get your grass ready for the long winter and upcoming spring by aerating: "If want your outdoor space to look lush and green once the snow melts, aerating your lawn is a great first step. Once your lawn is aerated, give it something to munch on before the first frost. Purchase a late-season fertilizer, which will help the grass retain vital nutrients during the winter" (Realtor.Com)
- Prepare all yard equipment for the cold: "rust, moisture, and freezing temperatures can damage lawnmowers, trimmers, and other gardening tools, making them unusable when spring arrives. Winterizing them as part of [your] yard projects ensures that your equipment stays in top condition while also reducing the need for costly replacements" (Backyard Boss).
- Clear plants you don't want returning in the spring: "take a long look at your yard, and decide which landscaping elements worked superbly last year, and which didn't work well. Removing plants is easier when they're in hibernation, so pull up the roots" (Realtor.Com)
- Get your winter compost started: "starting a compost pile before winter is one of the smartest winter projects for eco-conscious homeowners. Composting not only manages organic waste but also creates nutrient-rich material for your garden" (Backyard Boss).
- Build something you can enjoy in the cold: "Most winter yard to-do's won't pay off until spring, when the warm weather gives you a good look at the fruits of your hard labor. But here's a fun project that promises to make your backyard usable—even on the chilliest day: Build yourself the biggest, best fire pit" (Realtor.Com)
What is at the top of your list for helping your backyard survive the cold? Let us know in the comments below!
(Image via Canva)