The Best Landscaping Practices for Each Season
At A M Landscaping & Gardening, we understand that maintaining a beautiful and healthy outdoor space requires year-round care. Each season presents unique challenges and opportunities, so here’s a guide to the best landscaping practices for every time of the year.
Spring – Preparing for Growth
Spring is a time of renewal and new growth, making it the perfect season for revitalising your landscape.
Key Practices:
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Lawn Care: Start by aerating and scarifying the lawn to remove thatch and improve air circulation. Apply a spring feed to encourage lush, green growth.
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Weeding & Mulching: Remove any weeds before they spread, and apply mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress future weeds.
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Pruning & Trimming: Cut back dead or damaged branches from trees and shrubs to promote healthy growth. Spring-flowering plants should only be pruned after they bloom.
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Planting & Seeding: Now is the best time to plant perennials, shrubs, and trees. It’s also ideal for reseeding any bare patches in the lawn.
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Irrigation Check: Inspect and service irrigation systems to ensure proper water distribution as the weather warms up.
Summer – Maintaining & Protecting
With longer days and higher temperatures, summer is about keeping your landscape healthy while protecting it from drought and heat stress.
Key Practices:
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Watering Efficiently: Water early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent evaporation. Deep, infrequent watering encourages stronger root growth.
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Lawn Maintenance: Mow regularly but avoid cutting the grass too short, as longer blades help retain moisture. Apply a summer lawn feed if needed.
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Pest & Disease Control: Check for pests like aphids, slugs, and fungal diseases, and use environmentally friendly treatments where necessary.
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Deadheading & Pruning: Remove faded flowers from plants to encourage continuous blooming. Light pruning can also shape shrubs and control growth.
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Hardscape Maintenance: Clean patios, pathways, and decking to remove dirt and algae build-up.
Autumn – Preparing for Dormancy
As temperatures begin to cool, autumn is the perfect time to prepare your garden for the colder months ahead.
Key Practices:
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Leaf Management: Regularly clear fallen leaves to prevent them from smothering the lawn and flower beds. Leaves can be composted for future mulch.
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Lawn Treatment: Apply an autumn feed rich in potassium to strengthen grass roots before winter. Scarify and aerate the lawn again if needed.
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Planting for Spring: Now is the ideal time to plant spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils, tulips, and crocuses.
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Mulching & Soil Care: Add compost or organic mulch to garden beds to enrich the soil and provide insulation against frost.
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Pruning & Protection: Prune trees and shrubs to remove weak or diseased branches. Protect tender plants with fleece or move them to sheltered areas.
Winter – Protection & Planning
While winter can be quiet for landscaping, there are still essential tasks to ensure your garden remains healthy and ready for spring.
Key Practices:
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Protect Plants: Cover delicate plants with fleece or move potted plants to sheltered locations to prevent frost damage.
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Lawn Care: Avoid walking on frozen grass to prevent damage. Clear any debris that could smother the lawn.
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Hardscape Maintenance: Winter is a great time to clean and repair garden structures, fences, patios, and decking.
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Wildlife Support: Provide food and water for birds and leave some sheltered areas for beneficial insects.
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Planning for Spring: Use this time to plan new landscaping projects, research plant choices, and design improvements for the coming year.
Expert Landscaping Services in Ramsbottom & Bury
At A M Landscaping & Gardening, we offer professional landscaping and garden maintenance services throughout Ramsbottom, Bury, and surrounding areas. Whether you need seasonal care, a full garden makeover, or expert advice, our team is here to help keep your outdoor space looking its best all year round.