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Remove debris (leaves, branches, etc.) from beds. Top dress mulch as needed. Cut perennials back to the ground. Some perennials are evergreen or semi-evergreen and shouldn’t be cut back, only remove dead leaves. See fall for perennial options. Divide perennials as needed. Trim back summer blooming shrubs. General rule of thumb is to trim back one half the size. Shrubs to trim are summer blooming spireas, potentillas, hydrangeas, weigelas, and shrub roses. Remove tree wrap around April 1st. Sweep sand over paver walks, patios and driveways. Drain water feature, clean, reattach pump, fill and start up as needed.
Remove debris (leaves, branches, etc.) from beds. Spread Preen over wood mulch beds in early May (follow application instructions). Trim spring blooming shrubs. Trim within 2 to 3 weeks after blooming. Spring bloomers include rhododendrons, azaleas, lilacs, bridalwreath spirea, forsythia, cherry, mock orange, and ninebarks.
Remove debris (leaves, branches, etc.) from beds. Deadhead perennials (as needed). Deadheading is removing spent blooms and stems. Shear evergreens such as yews, arborvitae, junipers, hemlocks, spruce, and pine. Some may not need shearing based upon individual plant needs or desired look. Shear summer blooming spireas (after blooming), euonymus, dogwoods, most hedges, willow, some viburnums, maple shrubs, chokeberries, and barberries. Watch for weeds and remove them from planting beds.
Remove debris (leaves, branches, etc.) from beds. Leave perennials standing for fall and winter interest. Wrap shade and ornamental tree trunks with tree wrap around November 1st. Winterize water feature as needed. Continue watering your plantings until the ground freezes. Evergreens (needle type and broadleaf) especially benefit from late season watering. Fall is another good time to top dress wood mulch.

The above guidelines are general in nature but provide a good foundation for landscape maintenance standards. As always, don’t hesitate to call or e-mail us for any questions.