Will a dry winter mean an equally dry summer? It has been the third driest winter on record in San Jose, CA. Whether or not this will be followed by a dry summer is difficult to say. However, being prepared will help you maintain a healthy and attractive landscape in spite of the weather.
Plants and grass have reduced maintenance needs in winter. Use the extra time to prepare for the growing season. Here are some winter landscape maintenance tips that will improve growth and yield in summer.
- Aerate the soil in the late winter (and remove leaves, branches and debris) to encourage absorption of water and sunlight, and provide easy access to nutrients. This will help strengthen the roots.
- Keep your lawn and flower beds free of debris including leaves and branches to maintain the right pH levels.
- Remove broken branches and twigs to reduce unnecessary weight on your plants and trees.
- Reduce irrigation. Water just enough to keep the roots moist. Over watering leads to swamp like conditions which make it difficult for the roots to breathe. It also promotes rot, mold and disease.
- Test your sprinklers and irrigation equipment for broken heads, clogs and malfunctions. This is the best time to get them serviced or repaired or even check out a new water-efficient system.
- Get a CLCA Certified water manager to assess your requirements and draw up a customized water management plan.
- Explore sustainable (eco-friendly) landscaping to reduce water and maintenance expenses.
- Engage an experienced landscape management company to provide professional care and great results through the year.
A proven landscaping service has the expertise to meet your commercial landscaping needs and growing conditions. Hire a reliable company for year-round landscape maintenance.
