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By the time February rolls around, winter has usually lost its novelty. The holidays are long gone, the yard looks a little tired, and spring still feels just out of reach. Depending on where you live, you might be staring at snowbanks or noticing the first hints of green pushing through—or perhaps you’ve been spared by the cold altogether!
Regardless, February is a month where a little attention goes a long way. You don’t need a full weekend overhaul—just a few smart check-ins that help prevent bigger headaches once the growing season kicks in.
1. Stay Ahead of Late-Winter Debris
Even if you did a thorough fall cleanup, winter has a way of adding its own mess. High winds can push in debris, and snow or ice storms often bring down branches—sometimes entire limbs. In many parts of the country, February is when you start seeing what winter actually left behind.
Take advantage of milder days to walk the yard and pick up larger debris. Clearing fallen branches, loose sticks, and exposed leaf piles now keeps them from smothering grass underneath and makes your spring cleanup far more manageable. When the weather finally turns, you’ll be able to focus on a full leaf and lawn refresh instead of starting with storm damage.
2. Watch for Snow and Ice Damage
Heavy snow and ice can take a toll on trees and shrubs. February is a good time to inspect your yard for broken branches, split limbs, or bent shrubs.
If conditions are safe, carefully prune damaged limbs to prevent further tearing and disease. Avoid aggressive pruning in extreme cold, but removing obvious storm damage helps protect plant health before spring growth begins.
For homeowners still dealing with snow cover, take note of areas where branches have bowed under weight. Once snow melts, reassess and trim as needed.
3. Prepare Garden Beds for the Season Ahead
In warmer climates, February may already be the start of early planting and soil preparation. In colder zones, it’s still a good time to clean up visible dead material and plan improvements.
Remove leftover annuals, trim back ornamental grasses if you haven’t already, and pull any early-emerging weeds before they establish themselves. Where the ground is workable, refreshing mulch can help regulate soil temperature and suppress early weed growth.
If your soil is still frozen, use this month to plan: map out garden changes, order seeds, and evaluate what worked well last year.
4. Address Compaction and Drainage Issues
Late winter often reveals drainage challenges. Snowmelt and seasonal rain can highlight low spots, pooling water, or areas of compacted soil.
While you may not be able to correct everything immediately, February is a good time to observe and take notes. Identifying problem areas now allows you to schedule aeration, grading, or soil amendments as soon as conditions improve.
Being proactive with drainage can prevent root damage, lawn thinning, and muddy patches later in spring.
5. Get Equipment Ready Before the Rush
As temperatures begin to fluctuate, spring yard work is closer than it feels. February is one of the best times to inspect and maintain your equipment before peak season arrives.
Clean out debris, check for worn or damaged parts, and ensure everything is functioning properly. If you use seasonal equipment for leaf and debris collection, make sure it’s clean, dry, and ready to go when you need it.
For those who stored equipment for winter, take a few minutes to inspect hoses, moving parts, and collection systems. Addressing routine maintenance items now helps avoid delays once yard work ramps up.
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Conclusion
February yard care isn’t about major overhauls. It’s about paying attention during the transition from winter to spring. Whether you’re managing snow and ice or already seeing green return to your lawn, small, thoughtful actions now can make the next season smoother and more productive.
By staying ahead of debris, monitoring plant health, preparing garden beds, and maintaining equipment, you position your yard for a strong start when spring fully arrives. A little preparation in February can make a noticeable difference in the months ahead.
\r\n \r\n","BodyOverview":"February yard care looks different across the country, but everywhere it’s a month for small, smart steps. Clearing winter debris, checking for storm damage, and preparing for spring now can save you time and frustration later.","AllowComments":false,"NumberOfComments":0,"CreatedOn":"2026-02-17T20:15:35","Tags":["february","winter","garden","yard tips"],"Comments":[],"AddNewComment":{"CommentText":null,"DisplayCaptcha":false,"Captcha":{"ReCaptchaChallengeField":null,"ReCaptchaResponseField":null,"ReCaptchaResponseValue":null,"ReCaptchaResponse":null},"Id":null,"UserFields":[]},"Id":"6995e5a7cf62563755a51a3a","UserFields":[]},{"MetaKeywords":"mowing the lawn benefits, lawn care happiness, does mowing improve mood, fresh cut grass stress relief, mental health yard work, physical activity lawn mowing, yard work mindfulness, mowing meditation, outdoor wellness tips","MetaDescription":"Discover how mowing the lawn can boost happiness through physical activity, mindfulness, and even the scent of fresh-cut grass. Science says it really can help.","MetaTitle":"Can Mowing the Lawn Make You Happier?","SeName":"can-mowing-the-lawn-make-you-happier","Title":"Can Mowing the Lawn Make You Happier?","PictureModel":{"ImageUrl":"/assets/images/thumbs/691b7b55b10f4eeecbbd7ca4_can-mowing-the-lawn-make-you-happier_750.jpeg","ThumbImageUrl":null,"FullSizeImageUrl":"/assets/images/thumbs/691b7b55b10f4eeecbbd7ca4_can-mowing-the-lawn-make-you-happier.jpeg","Title":"Show blog post for Can Mowing the Lawn Make You Happier?","AlternateText":"Picture for blog post Can Mowing the Lawn Make You Happier?","Style":null,"ExtraField":null,"Id":"691b7b55b10f4eeecbbd7ca4","UserFields":[]},"Body":"Actually, weirdly, yes. Let’s take a look at three ways this chore can help drive a sense of happiness, shall we?
Reason #1: Benefits to Mental and Physical Health
In this section I will, perhaps slightly presumptuously, make the claim that good health and wellness positively correlate with happiness. If you disagree with this, I would love to hear from you in the comments! (Just kidding; I wouldn’t.=)
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Two studies highlight how physical activity impacts both mental and physical well-being:
a) You may have heard the phrase “sitting is the new smoking,” and it turns out it might be true. A study entitled Sedentary Behaviors Increase Risk of Cardiovascular Disease Mortality in Men found that sedentary behaviors increase the risk of cardiovascular disease mortality in men (don’t you just love such descriptive titles?!). They noted that physical inactivity is associated with increased risk of morbidity and worsening of many chronic diseases and health conditions. Even if you have a ride-along mower, the very act of doing yard work outside—along with all it entails—can play a role in living more healthfully.
b) It has long been assumed that physical activity positively impacts mental health, but now we have the data to support it. In the study Association Between Physical Exercise and Mental Health in 1.2 Million Individuals[…] researchers noted that individuals who engaged in physical activity, like mowing the lawn, had 43.2% fewer days of poor mental health in the past month than individuals who did not exercise. The results speak for themselves.
Reason #2: Zen and the Art of Mowing the Lawn
There are many readers who will gasp at the idea that mowing the lawn can be meditative. Depending on the day, I myself am one of those people. I’m not suggesting you sit cross-legged on your ride-along and start humming om, but here are a few things to keep in mind to make mowing the lawn more mindful and enjoyable:
Whether or not mowing the lawn can make you happier is, in many respects, dependent on the attitude with which you approach it.
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Reason #3: Smell the Roses
In a seven-year-long study at The University of Queensland’s School of Biomedical Science, researchers observed the effects of smelling freshly cut grass and trees and its relation to stress. They found, somewhat remarkably, that these scents reduced stress and may potentially slow the aging of the brain.
In short, their research suggests that when you breathe in the scents of freshly cut grass, plants, and trees, your amygdala (emotion) and hippocampus (memory) are stimulated in a way that can boost memory and relieve stress—thereby reinforcing the claim of slowing the brain’s aging.
Dr. Nick Lavidis, the neuroscientist who led the study, even bottled these findings into an eau de grass spray called Serenascent. He claims that the spray—which supposedly smells like the forest—is able to mimic the positive benefits of being in nature.
\r\n \r\n","BodyOverview":"Yes, mowing the lawn can genuinely make you happier—and science backs it up. From the physical and mental health benefits to small moments of mindfulness here’s how this everyday chore can boost your mood.","AllowComments":false,"NumberOfComments":0,"CreatedOn":"2025-11-17T04:45:10","Tags":["lawn care","garden"],"Comments":[],"AddNewComment":{"CommentText":null,"DisplayCaptcha":false,"Captcha":{"ReCaptchaChallengeField":null,"ReCaptchaResponseField":null,"ReCaptchaResponseValue":null,"ReCaptchaResponse":null},"Id":null,"UserFields":[]},"Id":"691b7b46b10f4eeecbbd79b6","UserFields":[]},{"MetaKeywords":"tree height measurement, measure tree height, DIY tree measuring, shadow method tree height, yard measuring tips, arborist tips, backyard tree guide, tree safety, clinometer tree height, how tall is my tree","MetaDescription":"Learn simple, accurate ways to measure a tree’s height using shadows, sticks, smartphone apps, and more. Easy DIY tips for homeowners and curious yard lovers.","MetaTitle":"How to Measure the Height of a Tree: Easy DIY Methods","SeName":"how-to-measure-the-height-of-a-standing-tree","Title":"How to Measure the Height of a Standing Tree","PictureModel":{"ImageUrl":"/assets/images/thumbs/691b748db10f4eeecbbc0e69_how-to-measure-the-height-of-a-standing-tree_750.jpeg","ThumbImageUrl":null,"FullSizeImageUrl":"/assets/images/thumbs/691b748db10f4eeecbbc0e69_how-to-measure-the-height-of-a-standing-tree.jpeg","Title":"Show blog post for How to Measure the Height of a Standing Tree","AlternateText":"Picture for blog post How to Measure the Height of a Standing Tree","Style":null,"ExtraField":null,"Id":"691b748db10f4eeecbbc0e69","UserFields":[]},"Body":"\r\n \r\nFirst off: why would you ever need to know the height of a standing tree? Three reasons come to mind:
Below you’ll find some practical (and not so practical) ways of measuring a tree.
Impractical Tip #1: Ask a Squirrel
This may sound like the easiest and most enticing option, but there’s a surprising amount of legwork that goes into asking a squirrel the height of a tree. First, you’ll need to befriend a squirrel. This can take a few years. You can gain its trust by offering a steady supply of assorted nuts, letting it into your house, and allowing it to sleep in your bed.
Then you’ll need to teach the squirrel English, or at least a numerical system. Finally, you must trust that the squirrel isn’t lying to you.
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Impractical Tip #2: Climb
With a measuring tape in tow, climb to the very top of the tree. Once you reach the highest point, hold on to one end of the tape and drop the other to the ground. Read the tape. That’s the height of your tree.
(While we wish you well in your squirrel-befriending endeavors, please don’t do this option.=)
Practical Tip #1: Measure the Tree’s (and Your) Shadow
This method gives you a solid height estimate using simple proportions.
You’ll need:
1. Your height
2. Your shadow length (an extra hand helps)
3. The tree’s shadow length
Once you have all three, compare the ratios.
For example, if your 6-foot height casts a 4-foot shadow, and the tree’s shadow is 20 feet long, then:
6 ft ÷ 4 ft = 1.5
20 ft × 1.5 = 30 ft (tree height)
Note: measure both shadows around the same time so the sun angle is consistent.
Practical Tip #2: Look Between Your Legs
It sounds odd, but this method—said to have been used by Native Americans—produces surprisingly accurate results.
1. Stand with your back to the tree.
2. Look between your legs at the tree.
3. If you can’t see the whole tree, walk farther away until the top becomes visible.
4. Mark this spot on the ground.
5. Measure the distance from that mark to the tree’s trunk.
You now have an oddly accurate estimate of your tree’s height.
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Practical Tip #3: Use a Smartphone Clinometer App
Many free apps can measure angles using your phone’s camera.
1. Stand a known distance from the tree.
2. Hold your phone at eye level and aim at the treetop.
3. The app will calculate the height for you, or give you the angle so you can plug it into a simple online calculator.
Fast, simple, and surprisingly accurate.
Practical Tip #4: The Stick-and-Walk Method
This classic forester’s trick is quick and surprisingly effective.
1. Hold a stick at arm’s length so that the part of the stick above your hand equals the distance from your hand to your eye.
2. Keeping your arm straight, walk backward until the stick appears to be the same height as the tree.
3. Measure the distance from where you’re standing to the base of the tree. That distance is approximately the tree’s height.
Practical Tip #5: The Yardstick Method (Video)
Sometimes it’s easier to show than tell. Here’s a quick video from a forestry professor at Stephen F. Austin State University demonstrating how to measure a tree with a yardstick:
Please note: these methods provide estimates. For exact measurements—or if you plan to cut down a tree—contact your local arborist. Happy tree measuring!
\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n","BodyOverview":"Learn a handful of fun, practical, and surprisingly accurate ways to measure the height of a standing tree without any special equipment.","AllowComments":false,"NumberOfComments":0,"CreatedOn":"2025-11-16T23:14:58","Tags":["trees","garden","leaf cleanup"],"Comments":[],"AddNewComment":{"CommentText":null,"DisplayCaptcha":false,"Captcha":{"ReCaptchaChallengeField":null,"ReCaptchaResponseField":null,"ReCaptchaResponseValue":null,"ReCaptchaResponse":null},"Id":null,"UserFields":[]},"Id":"691b7432b10f4eeecbbb96b9","UserFields":[]},{"MetaKeywords":"grass identification, lawn care guide, grass types, how to identify grass, cool season grass, warm season grass, fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, Bermudagrass, lawn maintenance","MetaDescription":"Learn how to identify your grass type, why it matters, and how to care for your lawn better. Practical, funny, and full of expert lawn tips.","MetaTitle":"What Type of Grass Do I Have? | Lawn Identification Guide","SeName":"what-type-of-grass-do-i-have-and-why-you-should-care","Title":"What Type of Grass Do I Have? (And Why You Should Care)","PictureModel":{"ImageUrl":"/assets/images/thumbs/68efb1b143172249a6286ce5_what-type-of-grass-do-i-have-and-why-you-should-care_750.jpeg","ThumbImageUrl":null,"FullSizeImageUrl":"/assets/images/thumbs/68efb1b143172249a6286ce5_what-type-of-grass-do-i-have-and-why-you-should-care.jpeg","Title":"Show blog post for What Type of Grass Do I Have? (And Why You Should Care)","AlternateText":"Picture for blog post What Type of Grass Do I Have? (And Why You Should Care)","Style":null,"ExtraField":null,"Id":"68efb1b143172249a6286ce5","UserFields":[]},"Body":"This post will render itself meaningless unless you understand why you should care about what kind of grass you have. Let’s take a quick look at why it matters — then we’ll dive into how to figure out what’s actually growing in your lawn. Shall we?
Why You Should Care
We sometimes think of grass not as a plant, but just as, well, grass. And truth be told, you can live a perfectly normal, problem-free life without knowing whether your lawn is Kentucky bluegrass or Bermudagrass.
But what if I told you that knowing could boost your happiness and life expectancy by 10%?
Okay, I can’t do that. I’m just a writer writing about grass, not a gosh-dang wizard.
Still, there are some very real (and a few not-so-real) reasons you should know what kind of grass you have.
Less Practical Reasons Grass Identification Is Cool
1. You’ll constantly impress—and absolutely never annoy—your family and friends with your new grass-identification skills. Imagine being at a backyard barbecue and steering the conversation toward the very Kentucky bluegrass you’re standing on. Dream big.
2. Grass identification trips make amazing vacations. Picture this: seeing Bahiagrass, turf-type tall fescue, centipedegrass, and zoysia all in one trip! (Just kidding. Please do not spend your vacation days identifying grass.)
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Practical Reasons Grass Identification Actually Matters
1. Knowing what kind of grass you have is like knowing what kind of plant you’re caring for. Different species have different needs—especially when it comes to light, water, fertilizer, mowing height, and pest control.
2. Once you understand your grass’s preferences, you can keep it healthy year-round instead of guessing and hoping for the best.
Getting Started on Grass Identification
1. The easiest—and least romantic—way to figure out what kind of grass you have is to use a plant identification app. iNaturalist, PlantNet, and LeafSnap are still solid choices, while newer tools like PictureThis, Google Lens, and ChatGPT can help too. The only catch? Many grasses look nearly identical, especially when kept short, which can lead to false IDs. If you’re using an app, a pro tip is to let a small patch of grass grow out a bit before taking photos. The longer the blades, the easier it is for the app to pick up distinct features like blade width, growth habit, and tip shape.
2. If you prefer the old-fashioned way, start by identifying your growing region. In the U.S., lawns generally fall into one of three zones: cool-season, warm-season, or transition. These broad categories often tell you which grasses thrive where, but if you’re unsure, check out the updated USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map or a grass-growing region map from a trusted lawn-care resource.
3. Once you know your region, narrow it down with a grass ID guide. If your lawn features a standout variety like fine fescue or centipedegrass, you might recognize it right away. For trickier cases, compare potential matches side by side—look at color, texture, blade shape, and how it spreads (clumping or creeping).
Still stumped? Your local cooperative extension office or county agricultural agency can help confirm your ID—and they’ll probably be thrilled that someone finally asked.
I’ve Identified My Grass. Now What?
What the heck do you mean, “Now what?”
Now you’re equipped not just with the name of your grass, but also with its preferred growing conditions! And perhaps most importantly, instead of saying “I’m going to mow the lawn,” you can now say, with total confidence: “I’m going to mow the Kentucky Bluegrass.”
\r\n \r\n","BodyOverview":"Knowing what kind of grass you have helps you care for it the right way — from watering and mowing to fertilizing and keeping it healthy year-round. This guide breaks down why grass identification matters, how to figure out what’s growing in your lawn, and what to do once you know.","AllowComments":true,"NumberOfComments":0,"CreatedOn":"2025-10-15T06:37:17","Tags":["grass","yard tips","garden"],"Comments":[],"AddNewComment":{"CommentText":null,"DisplayCaptcha":false,"Captcha":{"ReCaptchaChallengeField":null,"ReCaptchaResponseField":null,"ReCaptchaResponseValue":null,"ReCaptchaResponse":null},"Id":null,"UserFields":[]},"Id":"68efb19d43172249a62867c1","UserFields":[]},{"MetaKeywords":"yard work tips October, fall lawn care, October lawn maintenance, leaf cleanup, composting leaves, aerate lawn fall, fall fertilizer, garden cleanup, Cyclone Rake","MetaDescription":"Get your yard in shape this fall with 7 essential October lawn and garden tips — from leaf cleanup to composting — for a healthier, better-looking lawn.","MetaTitle":"Top Yard Work Tips for October | Cyclone Rake","SeName":"top-yard-work-tips-for-october-get-your-lawn-looking-its-best-this-fall","Title":"Top Yard Work Tips for October: Get Your Lawn Looking Its Best This Fall","PictureModel":{"ImageUrl":"/assets/images/thumbs/68efadcd43172249a62782cf_top-yard-work-tips-for-october-get-your-lawn-looking-its-best-this-fall_750.jpeg","ThumbImageUrl":null,"FullSizeImageUrl":"/assets/images/thumbs/68efadcd43172249a62782cf_top-yard-work-tips-for-october-get-your-lawn-looking-its-best-this-fall.jpeg","Title":"Show blog post for Top Yard Work Tips for October: Get Your Lawn Looking Its Best This Fall","AlternateText":"Picture for blog post Top Yard Work Tips for October: Get Your Lawn Looking Its Best This Fall","Style":null,"ExtraField":null,"Id":"68efadcd43172249a62782cf","UserFields":[]},"Body":"
Introduction
October is the heart of leaf season. Lawns are still active, trees are changing fast, and it’s the moment when a little care goes a long way. The key jobs you tackle now—clearing leaves, feeding the lawn, tidying beds—set the tone for a great-looking property through the rest of fall and into next spring. Let’s take a look at the seven top things you can do for your yard and your lawn in October.
1. Clear Fallen Leaves Regularly
Most lawns can tolerate a light layer of leaves, but problems begin when that layer gets thick enough to block sunlight and trap moisture. Over time, the grass underneath can thin out or die off entirely, and those damp, compacted spots can also invite mold and lawn disease.
For many yards—whether it’s a small property with a few big trees or several acres of leaf cover—regular removal is the best way to protect your lawn. Keeping up with the leaves prevents die-off under matted layers and helps any seeding or fertilizing efforts work better, since air and nutrients can reach the soil. A Cyclone Rake makes this easy to stay ahead of, turning what used to be a long cleanup into a fast, single-pass job.
2. Aerate and Fertilize Your Lawn
If you still haven’t aerated this year, October is still a great time to do it. Aeration opens up compacted soil, letting oxygen, water, and nutrients reach the roots — especially helpful after months of mowing and foot traffic. Follow it up with a fall fertilizer to strengthen roots and boost color before the first frost.
Choose a slow-release or nitrogen-rich formula made for cool-season grasses. The combination of aeration and fertilization gives your lawn what it needs to stay healthy through fall and come back strong in spring.
3. Define Lawn Borders
Clean edges along driveways, walkways, and garden beds make a bigger difference than most people realize. They give your property a polished, well-kept look and help prevent grass from creeping into flowerbeds. A sharp, defined border also makes leaf cleanup easier since it’s clear where to stop mowing or vacuuming.
4. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Leaves don’t just fall on the lawn — they fill gutters too. Clogged gutters can overflow and cause water damage to siding, fascia boards, or even your foundation. It’s best to clear them out a few times during the season rather than waiting for them all to have fallen. While you’re up there, check that downspouts are directing water away from the house and that extensions are secure.
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5. Put Your Leaves to Work: Build or Refresh Your Compost Pile
Leaves are nature’s best resource — they’re full of nutrients and make incredible compost when properly managed. Composting turns what would otherwise be yard waste into a powerful soil amendment for your garden beds, vegetable plots, or even potted plants.
Shredded leaves decompose much faster than whole ones, so if you’re collecting with a Cyclone Rake, you’re already halfway there, as the impeller mulches as you collect. Mix them with grass clippings or kitchen scraps, turn occasionally, and you’ll have garden gold by spring.
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6. Plant for Spring Color: Get Your Bulbs in the Ground Now
If you want tulips, daffodils, crocus, or hyacinths brightening your yard next spring, October is the time to plant them. Cool soil encourages root growth without triggering premature sprouting.
Clear beds of fallen leaves first to give bulbs direct contact with the soil, and cover them lightly with mulch to protect against temperature swings. You can also divide and replant perennials now — most will settle in comfortably before the ground freezes.
7. Clean Up Garden Beds and Edges
As annuals fade and perennials go dormant, cleaning out your beds keeps your landscape healthy and neat. Remove spent plants and weeds, cut back perennials that have finished blooming, and spread a thin layer of shredded leaves or compost around the base of shrubs.
This simple cleanup step helps prevent pests and diseases from overwintering in decaying plant matter and ensures your garden is ready to burst back to life in spring.
Conclusion
October is one of those months when a few well-chosen jobs can pay huge dividends in the coming months. Keep up with the leaves, tidy the edges, and put your garden to bed the right way — your lawn (and your future self) will thank you.
\r\n \r\n","BodyOverview":"This October yard guide covers seven essential tasks to keep your lawn, garden, and property in top shape through fall. From leaf cleanup and composting to lawn care and bulb planting, it’s a practical checklist to help your yard look its best before winter.","AllowComments":true,"NumberOfComments":0,"CreatedOn":"2025-10-15T02:19:36","Tags":["october","garden","compost","leaf cleanup","leaf vacuum","fall","yard tips"],"Comments":[],"AddNewComment":{"CommentText":null,"DisplayCaptcha":false,"Captcha":{"ReCaptchaChallengeField":null,"ReCaptchaResponseField":null,"ReCaptchaResponseValue":null,"ReCaptchaResponse":null},"Id":null,"UserFields":[]},"Id":"68efad7843172249a6277248","UserFields":[]},{"MetaKeywords":"September yard projects, fall cleanup tips, gutter cleaning fall, composting leaves, cool-season planting, Cyclone Rake leaf vacuum, fall lawn prep, mulch garden beds","MetaDescription":"Discover essential September yard projects to simplify fall cleanup. From gutters to compost prep and cool-season planting, get ahead of autumn with these easy tips.","MetaTitle":"September Yard Projects to Make Fall Cleanup Easier | Cyclone Rake","SeName":"get-ahead-of-fall-september-projects-to-make-leaf-season-easier","Title":"Get Ahead of Fall: September Projects to Make Leaf Season Easier","PictureModel":{"ImageUrl":"/assets/images/thumbs/68c2d60155305bc0c2eebd8e_get-ahead-of-fall-september-projects-to-make-leaf-season-easier_750.jpeg","ThumbImageUrl":null,"FullSizeImageUrl":"/assets/images/thumbs/68c2d60155305bc0c2eebd8e_get-ahead-of-fall-september-projects-to-make-leaf-season-easier.jpeg","Title":"Show blog post for Get Ahead of Fall: September Projects to Make Leaf Season Easier","AlternateText":"Picture for blog post Get Ahead of Fall: September Projects to Make Leaf Season Easier","Style":null,"ExtraField":null,"Id":"68c2d60155305bc0c2eebd8e","UserFields":[]},"Body":"\r\n \r\n \r\n
Introduction
September is the calm before the storm — the storm of falling leaves, that is. The air is cooler, the days a little shorter, and it’s the ideal time to get your yard ready before leaf season kicks into high gear. A little preparation now can save you hours of cleanup later and make the transition into autumn a whole lot smoother. Here are a few simple projects you can tackle this month to stay ahead of the mess.
1. Start with your tools
Nothing slows down fall cleanup like equipment that isn’t ready to go. Take a few minutes to give your Cyclone Rake a quick checkup: make sure the engine is running smoothly, inspect the impeller for wear, and look over hoses and connections so everything is secure. A little maintenance now ensures your Cyclone Rake and any other tools you may need are in top shape when the leaves really start to fall.
2. Prep your compost bin or pile
Leaves are an incredible resource for making nutrient-rich compost, but only if you’re ready for them. Clear space in your compost area, turn what’s already there, and make sure you’ve got room for the influx of shredded leaves and other fall debris. This way, you’re not just cleaning up — you’re recycling nutrients back into your soil.
![](\"/assets/images/uploaded/Blog%20images/pexels-hansmiddendorp-26827231.jpg\")
3. Check gutters early
Don’t wait until October to deal with gutters overflowing with leaves. Get a head start now by clearing out what’s already there. Best practice is to check and clean gutters regularly throughout the season instead of trying to do it all at once.
![](\"/assets/images/uploaded/Blog%20images/pexels-adrien-olichon-1257089-2663254.jpg\")
4. Mulch garden beds
Adding a fresh layer of mulch around your garden beds in September helps lock in moisture, smother late-season weeds, and give your landscape a tidy, finished look before fall plantings. It’s a small project that pays off with healthier beds and less weeding later.
5. Plant cool-season flowers or veggies
Just because summer is over doesn’t mean your garden has to look bare. September is the perfect time to add color with mums, pansies, and asters, or even grow cool-weather crops like lettuce, spinach, and kale. It’s a quick way to keep your yard looking lively while also extending your harvest.
6. Edge driveways and walkways
Before the leaves fall in earnest, take some time to clean up the edges of your driveway, walkways, and garden beds. A crisp edge not only looks sharp but also makes leaf cleanup faster and easier once the season really gets underway.
7. Consider a Cyclone Rake!
For current Cyclone Rake owners, you already know the difference it makes. For those who don’t have one yet, a lawn and leaf vacuum like the Cyclone Rake can save hours of time and energy. It not only clears large volumes of leaves quickly, but also shreds them into mulch or compost-ready material. That means less hassle for you, and healthier soil for your yard and garden.
September is the month to get ahead of fall, not just react to it. A little prep with tools, composting, and planning can make all the difference when the leaves start to fall in earnest. With the right approach — and the right equipment — you’ll be ready to handle whatever autumn throws your way.
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Where you live and how many trees you have are the two things that will ultimately impact what you should do with your leaves. When considering leaf disposal methods, there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and homeowners should feel empowered to use more than one disposal method in order to reap maximum benefits from the leaves.
Before you begin raking, it’s imperative to check to see if your town offers some sort of leaf pick-up program. Nowadays, many towns have trucks equipped with vacuum rigs that can suck up leaf piles left on the street and take them to a compost facility. This can be an incredibly convenient option—but one that’s likely only available in places that aren’t either highly urban or rural. Similarly, many towns will haul your leaves away so long as they are bagged up. While this may be a decent option for folks with small yards, bagging leaves can be a time-consuming process—and one that may not be the most efficient option if you have a large yard. Let’s take a look at six of the best ways to dispose of your leaves:
1. Compost them
If you already have a compost pile on deck, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t put at least a portion of your leaves in there. Leaves provide compost with that beneficial “brown material” it needs to thrive. For quicker decomposition results, try shredding your leaves (either with a lawn mower or by placing leaves in a garbage can and shredding them with a weed wacker). Keep in mind, however, that some leaves—like beech, sweet chestnut, and holly—aren’t suitable for compost because of their painfully slow decomposition times.
By far the easiest way to compost leaves is through collection with a leaf vacuum, which will save you the hassle of having to blow or rake leaves and haul them away on tarps. Companies like Cyclone Rake provide numerous solutions for this, from small yards to big ones.
2. Mulch into your grass
If you have a minimal amount of leaf coverage on your lawn, one option is to use a mulching lawn mower to shred them very finely, letting them decompose directly on your grass. Doing so will provide your grass with beneficial nutrients, but keep in mind: if the leaf coverage is too thick, it can prove detrimental to your grass.
3. Use them as mulch
Shredded leaves work great as a (free) mulching solution for your garden. A thin, even layer (about an inch thick should do) will both prevent weeds from sprouting up, and also help regulate soil temperature—which is especially important when temperatures start to drop.
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4. Leaf Mold
Leaf molds—especially for folks with big backyards—is perhaps the most underrated way of disposing your leaves. Essentially, leaf molds act a bit like a compost pile, except they rely only on two ingredients: leaves and water. While it can take a good amount of time for leaves to break down (anywhere from one to three years or so), the result is a compost-like product that can immensely benefit your plants by preventing runoff, improving water retention, and providing beneficial nutrients for your plants.
5. Burn them
While this is by far the most exciting option (unless you’re oddly aroused by the aerobic reaction of compost), burning your leaves can be dicey territory. For starters, many towns prohibit it, or, at the very least, require a license to do so. So, if you get a hankering to set your leaves aflame, be sure to check with local ordinances. Similarly—and this perhaps goes without saying—but burning leaves can be pretty dangerous. If you’re dead set on doing this, be sure to have a safe and proper pit to contain the fire, and always have a fire extinguisher on deck.
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6. Use the woods
If you happen to own a property with woods abutting your yard, another option is to simply blow your leaves into the forest. While the leaves will take roughly a couple years to decompose, this represents a good option for those who have the right set up. With just a little extra effort, the woods can be an excellent place to set up a few leaf molding stations.
In conclusion, the way you manage your leaves depends on your personal situation—yard size, the resources available in your community, or simply your preference. From mulching and composting to burning or simply using the woods, there’s a solution for every homeowner that allows for easy leaf management.
July is a crucial month for gardeners, marked by intense summer heat and the need for extra care to keep plants healthy and productive. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, this guide will provide you with essential tips to ensure your garden thrives. We'll cover the most important considerations for your garden in July, the best plants to grow, and additional tips to help you overcome the challenges of summer gardening.
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These tips are meant to ensure your garden remains vibrant and productive throughout July. Adapting your gardening practices to the summer climate and paying close attention to your plants' needs will help you achieve a bountiful and beautiful garden.
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If you spend any time outside chances are you’ve had the unpleasant experience of running into a tick. Whether they’ve found their way onto you, your kids, or your pets, they’re never fun to deal with. They can even be carriers of very serious diseases. Rather than trying to fight them when you find them, let’s beat them at the source. Here are 5 tips to keep your property tick free.
1) Keep your property clean.
Taking away there hiding spots is one of the best things you can do to keep your property tick free. Just like us they like cozy warm spots to curl up in. Keeping piles of leaves, sticks, and other brush on your property will encourage the ticks to make a home there. By clearing them out with, say the Cyclone Rake, you’re leaving them with less places to hide. The same also applies to tall grass, keeping the grass short will limit hiding places for ticks.
2) Create physical barriers.
Just like back in the day with a moat around a castle, creating a barrier around your property can keep ticks out. Ticks will be less likely to migrate into your territory if you put down a strip of gravel or wood chips between your lawn and any wooded areas. Ticks have a hard time traveling over gravel and wood chips and can’t survive in it for long. Your “moat” should be at least three feet wide to be the most effective.
3) Sun is your friend!
Ticks are not fans of the sun, which means it’s a great natural tool for you to use to your advantage. Keeping things like play equipment, patio tables, and fire pits in the sun will reduce the possibility of you running into a tick. Just be sure to protect yourself from the sun as well while you’re out there.
4) Keep deer off your property.
Keeping deer off your property is a great step towards keeping your property tick free. Ticks like to hitch a ride on deer. The simplest way to keep deer off your property is to build a fence. Just like with ticks creating a physical barrier between your property and the deer will keep them at bay. There are also various deer repellent sprays on the market that can help keep the deer, and subsequently the ticks, away.
5) Try a different tactic.
You may find it’s time to spray your yard if other tactics aren’t ridding your property of ticks. The use of pesticides works similarly to the physical barriers we mentioned before. Spraying the perimeter of your property will make it harder to the ticks to cross over. Keep in mind that these are chemicals, so be sure to read any and all labels before use to make sure it’s right for your needs. You can also check in with your local health or agricultural officials to see what the best product and time to spray for your area is.
Now that we've covered how to prepare your yard, let's take a look at 4 quick tips to ensure you're protecting yourself when you go outdoors:
Check out the CDC’s page on Ticks for more information on the types of ticks, how to treat them, as well as a a ton of other helpful information.
The snow is falling. The sky is grey. And even though Punxsutawney Phil didn’t see his shadow this year, spring feels like it’s a million miles away. A great way to feel like we’re getting closer to warm weather is to think about gardening. Your hands in the warm soil, fresh veggies and herbs, and the sun shining overhead…sounds lovely, right? We’re almost there. In the meantime, feel closer to spring by getting a head start on your herb garden. Starting an indoor herb garden in winter is easy and brings a little spice back to your life (pun intended).
Mint:
If you’re just getting into the herb growing business, mint is a great place to start. It’s resilient, likes a comfortable temperature range, and will make your house smell great. The easiest way to start growing mint is to get what’s called a cutting from an existing plant. This is where you take a section of stem from an existing plant and replant it. Mint is aggressive. If you plant it outside and leave it untended, it has the tendency to spread, taking over large areas. Once you have your cutting, place it in a glass of water for around 7-10 days, or until you see roots start to grow. Once you have roots you know it’s time to move it to some soil. Mint likes a wide mouth container, rather than a deep one, so it has room to breathe. Once your mint is thriving be sure to keep the soil moist. Planting your mint in a plastic container, rather than a porous clay, will help with this. Before you know it, you’ll have more mint than you know what to do with.
Basil:
Basil is great in pasta dishes, pizza, caprese salad, pesto, honestly this list can go on and on. With everything you’re able to add basil to, it’s a great addition to your indoor herb garden. To plant your Basil place moist potting mix in your pots, sprinkle a few basil seeds onto the surface, and cover with a thin layer of soil. Water, or use a spray bottle to keep the soil moist, but not saturated. Just like the rest of us, basil likes a warmer climate. During these winter months placing the basil in a window that sees lots of sun does the trick. Make sure there’s a good distance between the plant and the window if it’s leaky, or drafty. Cold temperatures, like a leaky window or a leaf touching a cold pane of glass, is a sure-fire way to kill a basil plant.
Chives:
Chives are the perfect way to add a bit of color and boost of flavor to almost any dish. Garlic and chive mashed potatoes, cheddar and chive scones, thrown in soup, salads, pasta and potato dishes…is anyone else getting hungry? No matter how you use your chives, they’re a great addition to your indoor herb garden. The fastest way to grow chives is if you can get your hands on some already grown bulbs. Simply transfer the bulbs to a pot with some moist soil, keeping the soil moist and the plant in the window, and wait a few weeks. Once the plant is accustomed to its new home, you can start snipping for your snacks. If you’re starting your chives from seeds, you’ll need to plant them about 1/4” deep, in well-draining soil. It will take about 2 weeks for the seeds to germinate (aka: grow so you actually see some chives).
Growing an indoor herb garden won’t make warm weather get here faster. But it will make you feel better along the way!