FALL PLANTING & CLEANUP

Scroll down to see a step-by-step overview of this project.

TOOLS YOU’LL NEED:

  1. Blower
  2. Lawn bags
  3. Fertilizer
  4. Spreader
  5. Garden rake
  6. Mulch
  7. Fall flowers (such as mums)
  8. Shovel or garden trowel
  9. Plant food
  10. Hose

STEP 1: Clear Lawn

Contrary to popular belief, fallen tree leaves will not insulate your lawn during winter. In fact, they can block vital sunlight and thin your grass. So, clear your lawn of leaves and debris with a blower. Put the leaves in a lawn bag.

STEP 2: Fertilize

Feeding in early September helps your lawn begin rebuilding grass roots that were damaged during the hot, dry summer. Ask a Home Depot Associate what type of fertilizer is best for your variety of grass.

STEP 3: Mulch

Clean out flowerbeds and apply a layer of mulch. Organic mulch feeds the soil while it helps the soil maintain a more consistent temperature.

STEP 4: Plant

To add fall color, plant fall flowers, like mums. Mums need at least a half-day of sun for good bloom, but full sun is best. Autumn is also the best time of year because the cooler weather allows the trees and shrubs to take root and get acclimated to their new home.

STEP 5: Feed

Feed your fall flowers every 3-4 weeks until buds set.