Winter Clean-Up: My Tried-and-True Tips for a Cozy Winter Yard

Winter clean-up has always been a favorite seasonal ritual of mine. There's something deeply satisfying about tidying up the yard, knowing it will help everything come back stronger in the spring. Here’s what I do every year to get my outdoor space winter-ready:


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  • Rake the Leaves: I used to think fallen leaves were pretty, but after seeing how they can suffocate the grass, I now make it a habit to rake them up regularly. Plus, there's nothing like the crunch underfoot as you work your way across the lawn!



  • Trim and Prune:  I learned the hard way that overgrown branches can cause trouble in the winter. So, I always trim back shrubs and perennials, careful not to overdo it, to keep everything healthy and ready for the cold.




Transform your garden into a year-round oasis with seasonal planters! Each season brings its own unique charm, and with the right plants, your garden can reflect the best of winter, autumn, summer, and spring. Here’s how to create stunning seasonal planters that will make your outdoor space bloom beautifully all year long.

Spring: A Fresh Start

As the days grow longer and the frost begins to melt, spring is the perfect time to introduce bright, cheerful blooms to your garden. Think tulips, daffodils, and pansies, which thrive in the cool, early spring weather. Add a touch of greenery with ferns and hostas for a balanced look. Opt for pastel-colored planters to enhance the fresh, rejuvenating feel of the season.

A vibrant flower garden with various colored blooms, including pink, purple, orange, and yellow, near rocks.

Summer: Vibrant and Full of Life

Summer is all about bold, vibrant colors and lush greenery. Consider planting sun-loving flowers like petunias, marigolds, and geraniums. Pair them with trailing plants like ivy or sweet potato vines to add depth and dimension to your planters. Choose bright, colorful pots to make a statement and capture the energy of summer. Don’t forget to keep your plants well-watered to withstand the summer heat!

Two pineapple cocktails on a ledge, overlooking a beach and ocean. Palm trees, blue sky.

Autumn: Warm and Cozy

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, embrace the warm, rich hues of autumn. Mums, asters, and ornamental peppers are perfect for fall planters, providing a burst of color that complements the season. Incorporate ornamental grasses for texture and interest. Earth-toned or rustic pots will enhance the cozy, inviting feel of your autumn garden.

Red mums bloom beside a weathered wooden post, with white flowers in the background.
Purple and yellow crocuses blooming in snow.

Winter: Elegant and Resilient

Winter doesn’t mean your garden has to look barren. With the right plants, you can create stunning winter planters that add a touch of elegance to the cold months. Consider evergreen plants like dwarf spruce or juniper, which provide year-round greenery. Add winter-blooming flowers like hellebores or winter pansies for a splash of color. Metallic or frosted planters can add a festive touch, perfect for the holiday season.


A person holding freshly cut green grass in their hand, with a lawn and a measuring wheel in the background.

Tips for Year-Round Success

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Plan Ahead: Choose plants that will thrive in your climate and consider their growth patterns to ensure your planters remain attractive throughout the season.

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Maintenance: Regular watering, fertilizing, and pruning will keep your plants healthy and vibrant.

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Creativity: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different plant combinations and pot styles to find what best reflects your personal style and the spirit of each season.

With a little planning and creativity, you can enjoy the beauty of a thriving garden every season. Happy planting!

Man pruning a rose bush against a white fence. He wears gloves and kneels.
Man pruning a rose bush against a white fence. He wears gloves and kneels.
Man pruning a rose bush against a white fence. He wears gloves and kneels.

  • Rake the Leaves:

    I used to think fallen leaves were pretty, but after seeing how they can suffocate the grass, I now make it a habit to rake them up regularly. Plus, there's nothing like the crunch underfoot as you work your way across the lawn!


  • Trim and Prune:

    I learned the hard way that overgrown branches can cause trouble in the winter. So, I always trim back shrubs and perennials, careful not to overdo it, to keep everything healthy and ready for the cold.


  • Tidy the Garden Beds:

    Clearing out the old plants and weeds from my garden beds feels like tucking them in for a long nap. A fresh layer of mulch adds a cozy blanket that keeps the soil and roots protected.


  • Aerate and Fertilize:

    Provide us with the images of the site so we can assess the scope of work and provide an accurate estimate for removal and restoration services.

  • Tool Care:

    After years of neglecting my tools and dealing with rusted blades, I’ve finally learned to clean and store them properly. It’s a small step that makes a big difference when spring rolls around.



There’s a certain peace that comes with a well-prepped yard through winter. It’s like wrapping up the season with a bow, knowing your hard work now will lead to a beautiful spring revival.


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