The Ultimate Fall Cleanup Checklist for a Healthy Landscape

When cooler evenings roll in and the trees start showing off their colors, most people in Auburn and Opelika are ready to enjoy football season, not yardwork. But here’s the thing: fall is the most important season for your landscape. What you do now determines how healthy and green your lawn and garden look next spring.

At RIP Landscapes, we know homeowners are busy, so we’ve pulled together this practical checklist to help you take care of your yard before winter sets in.

1. Rake and Remove Fallen Leaves

A blanket of leaves might look pretty, but if left alone it can smother your grass. Trapped moisture also creates a breeding ground for mold and pests. Aim to rake regularly or mulch leaves with your mower to give your lawn a chance to breathe.

2. Trim Trees and Shrubs

Fall is the perfect time to cut back dead branches and shape shrubs. In Auburn, sudden cold snaps and winter storms can weigh down weak branches, leading to damage. Trimming now keeps your plants healthy and your home safe.

3. Cut Back Perennials and Garden Beds

Some plants need a little haircut before the cold sets in. Cut back perennials that have finished blooming, but leave ornamental grasses and a few seed-bearing plants to add winter interest. Fresh mulch in your garden beds will insulate roots and protect your soil.

4. Weed One Last Time

Weeds don’t take the season off. If you let them go now, they’ll come back twice as strong in spring. A final round of pulling or spot treatments helps keep your beds clean and manageable.

5. Aerate and Overseed the Lawn

Fall in Alabama is prime time for aeration. Opening up compacted soil lets water, nutrients, and oxygen reach the roots. Overseeding after aeration ensures a thicker, healthier lawn that fills in bare spots before next year. This is one of the most valuable steps you can take to guarantee a lush yard in the spring.

6. Fertilize for Strong Roots

Don’t skip fertilizer just because the growing season is winding down. A fall feeding boosts root strength so your lawn can store energy for winter dormancy. The result is greener, stronger grass when temperatures warm up again.

7. Clean and Edge Garden Beds & Walkways

A neat edge makes a big difference. Redefining borders around beds and walkways creates a crisp, professional look. While you’re at it, clear out debris so your yard feels fresh heading into winter.

8. Mulch to Protect Plants

Adding a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around trees, shrubs, and flower beds helps regulate soil temperature and conserve moisture. It’s one of the simplest ways to protect your investment in your landscaping.

9. Drain and Store Garden Hoses & Irrigation

Before the first freeze, drain your hoses and irrigation lines. This prevents cracking and saves you from replacing equipment in the spring. Don’t forget to store garden tools in a dry spot so they last longer.

10. Consider Fall Planting Projects

Believe it or not, fall is one of the best times to plant trees, shrubs, and even bulbs in Auburn. Cooler temperatures and steady rainfall allow roots to establish before the summer heat returns.

Wrapping It Up

Fall cleanup might not be glamorous, but it’s the secret to having a vibrant, healthy landscape when spring rolls around. If the list feels long, don’t worry — RIP Landscapes is here to help.

We specialize in lawn aeration, overseeding, seasonal cleanups, and planting projects for homeowners in Auburn and Opelika. Let us take the hard work off your plate so you can enjoy your weekends.

Ready to get your yard in shape before winter? Contact RIP Landscapes today and schedule your fall cleanup service.