15 Fall Yard Projects in 15 Minutes or Less

Feeling bittersweet about summer’s end? After all that fun in the sun, it’s only natural. But there’s plenty to look forward to in the autumn days ahead: crisp weather perfect for backyard fires, a break from pesky mosquitoes –  and a landscape you can spend more time enjoying rather than working on. 

While there’s still yard maintenance that lasts into fall, this season’s to-do list is far shorter than spring’s. In fact, we’ve assembled a list of easy fall projects here. Best part? 15 minutes is all these tasks should take.

1. Bring flower and herb cuttings inside for drying.

2. Cut back perennials and remove all debris.

3. Plant spring bulbs.

4. Add compost or manure to garden beds.

5. Cover water features with netting to keep out falling leaves.

6. Speaking of, keep on top of those falling leaves. Mow over them to create mulch, or rake them away before they suffocate your grass.

7. Bring houseplants back inside before temperatures drop below 55 degrees.

8. Pressure wash outdoor furniture, fencing, and deck and patio areas.

9. Fertilize your lawn for a greener spring.

10. Apply broadleaf herbicide to combat dandelions before the pop up in spring.

11. Seed your lawn to fill in bare patches.

12. Water trees and shrubs until the ground freezes.

13. Replenish or put out birdfeeders for hungry feathered friends.

14. Add landscape lighting to keep your yard bright as the days grow shorter.

15. Make a landscaping wish list for spring. Survey your property and plan for what wonderful things you’ll do next year.

Just remember to keep mowing and watering your lawn regularly until your grass goes dormant and stops growing.

Check out other New Home Owner's Articles to read about important fall lawn care tips.