Quick Answer
A proper autumn clean-up in October includes raking leaves, trimming perennials, aerating and fertilizing your lawn, cleaning gutters, and prepping your garden beds for winter. Doing these steps now will make spring maintenance much easier.
Why Fall Clean-Up Matters
Autumn yard work isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about protecting your lawn and landscaping for the winter months ahead. Leftover debris, heavy leaf layers, and untrimmed plants can lead to mold, pests, and dead patches by spring.
Doing the work now saves money, effort, and stress later.
Step 1: Rake and Remove Leaves
A thick layer of leaves blocks sunlight and suffocates grass, leading to dead spots.
- Rake or mulch leaves weekly until they stop falling.
- Shred leaves with your mower to create natural mulch for garden beds.
- Avoid leaving piles on the lawn all winter.
Step 2: Trim Back Perennials and Shrubs
Cutting back certain plants helps them regrow stronger in spring.
- Trim perennials like hostas and daylilies once they yellow.
- Prune shrubs lightly to remove dead branches (avoid heavy pruning, save that for spring).
- Wrap young trees with burlap to prevent winter burn.
Step 3: Aerate and Fertilize the Lawn
Fall is the best time for lawn repair. Aeration opens up compacted soil so nutrients can reach the roots.
- Core aerate your lawn in October.
- Apply a fall fertilizer high in potassium for strong winter roots.
- Overseed thin patches to encourage thicker grass come spring.
Step 4: Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Falling leaves clog gutters fast in October. Blocked gutters can lead to water damage and ice dams in winter.
- Clear out all leaves, twigs, and debris.
- Flush with a garden hose to make sure water flows properly.
- Consider adding gutter guards if you have lots of trees nearby.
Step 5: Prep Garden Beds for Winter
Healthy beds in fall mean a head start in spring.
- Pull annual plants that won’t survive frost.
- Add a layer of compost or manure to enrich soil.
- Top with 2–3 inches of mulch to protect roots and hold moisture.
Step 6: Store Tools and Outdoor Items
Winter can damage tools, furniture, and hoses left outside.
- Drain and store hoses to avoid cracking.
- Clean and oil garden tools before storage.
- Cover or bring in outdoor furniture and décor.
Handy Autumn Clean-Up Checklist
| Task | Why It’s Important | When to Do It |
|---|---|---|
| Rake / Mulch Leaves | Prevents dead patches & mold | Weekly in October |
| Trim Perennials | Protects plants & promotes regrowth | Late October |
| Aerate Lawn | Improves soil & root health | Early to mid October |
| Fertilize Lawn | Builds winter strength | Mid October |
| Clean Gutters | Prevents water damage | Late October |
| Prep Garden Beds | Protects soil & roots | Before first frost |
| Store Tools & Furniture | Extends lifespan | End of October |
Final Word
An autumn yard clean-up in October is the best way to set your property up for success. By raking leaves, trimming plants, aerating, fertilizing, and prepping your garden beds now, you’ll protect your lawn and make spring growth easier.
Sarnia winters can be tough, but with this checklist, you’ll head into the cold season knowing your lawn and garden are ready.