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:


📍 Serving: Chicago & surrounding suburbs • 📞 (773) 257-3147 • 🌐 606landsnow.com



  • 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.




Robot mowers have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their efficiency and convenience. These machines are designed to navigate through gardens and lawns while cutting grass to a predetermined length. However, when it comes to selecting a robot mower, one important consideration is whether or not to have a wire perimeter.


A wire perimeter is a physical boundary (like an invisible dog fence) that is set up around the lawn or garden. It is used to guide the robot mower and ensure that it does not go outside the designated mowing area. This perimeter wire is buried or stapled to the ground and is connected to the robot mower's control unit. On the other hand, a robot mower without a wire perimeter relies on sensors and software to navigate around obstacles and boundaries which increases the risk of error, as you can imagine a rogue lawnmower in your lawn or your neighbors can be a very big and/or dangerous problem.


So, what are the benefits of having a wire perimeter for a robot mower?
  1. Increased Precision: A robot mower with a wire perimeter has increased precision because it follows a predetermined path. This allows for a more even cut and ensures that the entire lawn is mowed. In contrast, a robot mower without a perimeter wire can be less precise and may miss spots or leave uncut areas.
  2. Improved Efficiency: A robot mower with a wire perimeter can mow a lawn more efficiently than one without. This is because it does not waste time navigating around obstacles or searching for the edges of the lawn. The wire perimeter ensures that the robot mower stays within the designated mowing area, which saves time and energy.
  3. Better Navigation: A robot mower with a wire perimeter has better navigation than one without. When a device is properly programmed with wire perimeter it provides clear guidance for the robot mower, making it easier for it to navigate around obstacles, stay on course, and easily dock in it’s charging station. This can be especially beneficial for larger lawns or gardens with complex layouts and detached zones by sidewalks or driveways.
  4. Increased Safety: A wire perimeter can increase the safety of a robot mower by keeping it away from areas where it should not go. For example, it can prevent the robot mower from entering a swimming pool, flower bed, or neighboring yards. This can also help prevent damage to the robot mower or other objects in the garden.


In conclusion, having a wire perimeter for a robot mower offers several benefits. It can increase precision, improve efficiency, provide better navigation, and increase safety. While a robot mower without a perimeter wire may be suitable for some lawns or gardens, a wire perimeter is a great investment for those who want a precise and efficient lawn-mowing experience.


Robot mower on grass. Text: Benefits of having a wire perimeter vs no perimeter wire.
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.


By looka_production_103648083 January 7, 2026
By looka_production_103648083 October 13, 2025
New Title
By looka_production_103648083 August 12, 2025
Bringing Year-Round Beauty to Your Garden