As the leaves start to fall in Seattle, it’s the perfect time to prepare your yard for the coming winter. A thorough fall cleanup not only keeps your landscape looking neat but also protects plants, lawns, and soil from seasonal stress. With Seattle’s rainy winters, fall maintenance is especially important for preventing disease and setting the stage for healthy spring growth.
Why Fall Cleanup Matters in Seattle
The Pacific Northwest’s wet climate can encourage mold, fungus, and root rot if gardens are left untended. By removing debris, improving drainage, and protecting plants now, you’ll reduce problems later. Plus, fall cleanup ensures your landscape enters winter strong and resilient.
Essential Fall Cleanup Tasks
- Rake and Remove Leaves
While colorful autumn leaves are beautiful, leaving them to pile up on lawns can suffocate grass and encourage fungal diseases. Compost them for use as nutrient-rich mulch next year. - Prune Trees and Shrubs
Trim back dead or damaged branches before heavy rains and winter winds set in. In Seattle, pruning also helps reduce moss and mildew buildup on trees and shrubs. - Clean Up Garden Beds
Pull annuals that are finished for the season, cut back perennials, and remove weeds before they go to seed. Add a fresh layer of mulch to protect soil from erosion during heavy rains. - Prepare Your Lawn
Aerate compacted soil and reseed thin patches while the ground is still warm. Fertilizing in fall provides nutrients that support strong root systems through winter. - Protect Sensitive Plants
Seattle winters are mild, but frost and excess rain can still damage delicate shrubs. Wrap vulnerable plants in breathable covers and add mulch at their base for insulation. - Check Drainage and Gutters
Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent water backup. Good drainage protects both your garden and your home from water damage.
The Takeaway
A little extra effort in fall goes a long way toward keeping your Seattle landscape healthy and thriving. With proper cleanup and preparation, your yard will be ready to handle winter rains and burst back into life when spring arrives.
