As the brilliant colors of fall fade and the first frost looms, it’s time for homeowners in Chicago’s northern suburbs like Winnetka and Lake Forest to turn their attention to winter prep. Taking steps now can protect your landscaping investments, reduce spring cleanup, and keep your yard looking tidy even under a blanket of snow. From your lawn to your trees and irrigation system, a few smart moves in late fall can make all the difference when temperatures drop.
1. Give Your Lawn One Last Boost
Before the ground freezes, your lawn deserves a little attention. Start by giving it a final mow—but not too short. Cutting grass too low can stress it, while leaving it too long invites snow mold. Aim for a final height of about 2.5 inches.
After mowing, aerate and fertilize your lawn. Aeration allows water and nutrients to reach the roots, and a slow-release winter fertilizer helps grass store energy for spring. In the northern suburbs, where freeze-thaw cycles can be tough on turf, this last feeding makes a noticeable difference in how green and healthy your lawn looks come April.
If you’ve had trouble with bare patches or thinning areas, overseed before the ground hardens. Even if the seeds don’t germinate right away, they’ll be in place for an early start next spring.
2. Protect Trees and Shrubs from Winter Stress
Young trees and sensitive shrubs are especially vulnerable to winter winds, ice, and salt spray. To help them endure harsh conditions:
- Mulch around the base of trees and shrubs with a two- to three-inch layer of organic mulch. This insulates roots and helps retain soil moisture.
- Wrap young tree trunks (especially maples and ornamental varieties) with burlap or tree wrap to prevent sunscald and frost cracks.
- Prune dead or damaged branches before snow or ice has a chance to weigh them down.
Salt used on roads and driveways can also damage nearby plants. To minimize salt exposure, create physical barriers with burlap or plastic snow fencing, or use a calcium-based deicer that’s gentler on landscaping.
3. Cut Back and Clean Up Garden Beds
Once frost hits, annuals will fade and perennials will begin to die back. This is your cue to clean up flower and vegetable beds. Remove spent annuals and diseased plant material to prevent overwintering pests and fungus.
For perennials, cut them back to a few inches above ground—except for varieties like coneflowers or ornamental grasses, which can add winter interest and provide food for birds. Finish by adding a layer of mulch or compost to protect the soil and give roots insulation against extreme temperature swings.
4. Prep Your Irrigation and Outdoor Water Sources
If you have an underground irrigation system, schedule a professional blowout before the first hard freeze. Water left in irrigation lines can freeze, expand, and crack pipes or fittings—a costly repair in spring.
Detach and drain garden hoses, and store them indoors or in the garage. Shut off outdoor spigots and insulate them with covers to prevent freezing.
If you rely on a rain barrel, empty and disconnect it for the season, as ice can damage the barrel and fittings.
5. Don’t Forget Hardscapes and Outdoor Furniture
Your patio, walkways, and driveways will take a beating over the winter. Sweep away leaves and debris to avoid staining or mildew. If your pavers have gaps or uneven spots, take time to repair or relevel them now—it’s much easier before frost sets in.
Clean and store outdoor furniture and cushions, or cover them securely. Wicker and metal furniture in particular can deteriorate faster if left exposed to snow and ice.
Let Martin John Company Help
Whether it’s lawn care, tree protection, or irrigation winterization, Martin John Company can help you get your landscape ready for the cold months ahead. Our team specializes in year-round landscape maintenance for homeowners across Chicago’s northern suburbs.
Contact us today to schedule your winter prep services and make sure your property is protected and ready to flourish when spring returns.