As the fall season approaches, people across the country will begin preparing their lawns for the cooler temperatures. For many this is as simple a task as raking the newly fallen leaves and keeping the grass mowed. However, there are several steps that any average homeowner can take this fall to make sure their lawn is adequately prepared for the coming winter season. These tips work for every lawn, in almost every climate -- whether you fall into the do-it-yourself category of lawn maintenance or if you have a professional lawn care service provider.

Pruning and Trimming

Pruning and trimming your trees and shrubs is a good habit to adopt year round. It keeps the plants looking their best while also maintaining their health and stability. It is even more important to prune and trim these plants in the fall as winter approaches. The colder temperatures will likely result in a few more dead branches and limbs than usual, so it is important to remove these quickly for the health of the tree. Additionally, when temperatures drop even further, pruning larger, fuller trees and shrubs allows light to penetrate further into the center of the tree, providing warmth and nourishment. This tactic is especially important when dealing with coniferous trees and shrubs.

Mowing and Watering

While mowing and watering alone will not get your lawn adequately prepared for the colder temperatures and approaching winter months, they are essential. Good watering practices depend on a number of different factors, including your climate, grass type, the amount of rainfall and conditions which are unique to your lawn. Your lawn care service provider should be able to provide you with a proper maintenance schedule for in-between visits. If you aren't using a lawn care service provider, a good rule of thumb is that lawns need from 1 to 1 and 1/2 inches of water per week, whether it is coming from rainfall or sprinklers.

Mowing your lawn is just as important as watering in terms of routine lawn care and maintenance. If you set your blades a little higher for the hot sun of the summer months, now would be the time to reset the blades to their original position. It is extremely important not to take the blades too low or you will risk scalping the lawn causing undue stress before winter.

Raking

Raking or blowing the dead leaves which have fallen onto your lawn is necessary to maintain your yard's health and appearance. Not only does it look bad to have a layer of soggy, decaying leaves cluttering up your yard, the dead leaves release chemical compounds as they decompose which can be harmful to your lawn in large doses.  Leaving a layer of leaves on the lawn over the winter can also smother the lawn causing unsightly dead spots in the spring.  Rake or blow the dead leaves into bags or into your rain gutters along the street, in compliance with your municipal lawn waste regulations.

Pest Control

Pest control is a paramount concern as the winter months approach. As the temperatures outside get colder, insects will be looking for shelter and warmth anywhere they can find it. You will want to take measures to protect your house from these invading pests. Your lawn care specialists should be able to help you set up a plan to handle unwanted pests. If you don't have a lawn maintenance company protecting your lawn, always consult a professional and read label instructions carefully before applying insect controls yourself.

By following these tips you will be able to enjoy the crisp, cool fall air outside with your friends and family. Your lawn will remain healthy and begin to prepare itself for winter.