As autumn unfolds in Southern Ontario, it’s a great time to give your property a little extra attention.
However, instead of rushing into exhausting, meticulous clean-ups, let’s focus on what actually matters to your landscape. This short-and-sweet guide covers the most optimal, kind actions that will keep your property healthy through the fall without turning it into a chore.
1. Leave (Most of) The Leaves Alone
Fallen leaves aren’t actually the nuisance we might have been taught they are when we were first handed a rake. In fact, they act like a gentle compost on garden beds, helping to suppress weeds, retain moisture and feed the soil as they break down.
That said, you don’t want to let the layer of leaves get too heavy to the point they smother grass or invite mould to your greenery.
The best rule of thumb is to let enough rest on planting beds, and lightly sweep or rake anywhere else you want a clear path.
2. (Gently) Lower Your Mower Blade
Autumn isn’t the time for a sharp buzz-cut. Instead, aim to gradually trim your lawn down to about 2 to 2.5 inches.
This will help reduce snow mould, pest habitats and matting under snow and ice. Don’t rush the process, just lower the blade a notch or two per pass.
3. Know When Not to Mow
Certain grasses may still show growth well into autumn, and in Ontario, the final mow of the season often falls between late October and early November, depending on frost and temperature.
We recommend pausing once daytime temperatures consistently go below 10°C.
4. Clear Any Fallen Fruit
Leftover apples, berries, tomatoes etc can attract pests or mould, especially if they’re left to sit through damp weather. A quick clear now will save you from a bigger mess later.
5. Save Your Plants from “False Fall”
Warm snaps in autumn can trick plants into thinking spring has returned, only to be damaged by the next freeze.
Instead of fertilizing, give those plants a deep soak and a coating of mulch. It’s a smarter way to help them hold steady naturally.
How Our Five-Step Approach Helps Multi-Seasonally
- Easier Maintenance – Less clutter underfoot makes clearing, if needed, faster in spring.
- Thriving Soil – Leaves layered thoughtfully will nourish your landscape over winter.
- Yard Readiness – Your landscape starts the thaw in shape, not scrambling to recover.
- Lounging-Ready – A neat, prepared yard sets the stage for future upgrades, if any, but also feels good as-is as soon as spring hits.
Questions We’ve Recieved
Are grass clippings okay to leave on the lawn?
Absolutely, they’re like a free, natural fertilizer as long as they’re not overly thick. By leaving grass clippings, you’re retaining moisture and nutrients in your soil.
Should I still be watering my lawn in the fall?
Yes, lightly and in the morning, giving it the rest of the day to soak in. This will help your lawn recover from summer stresses and temperature extremes. Once frost and freezing nights begin, cut back.
Is fall too late to call Ignite?
Absolutely not. We can’t recommend making landscape arrangements in the fall season enough, whether for sod installation/replacement, paver patios, fire pits or making big plans for next year – especially for installations that might require a permit. Get in touch here.
