Saving your Commercial Landscape from the Cold

One thing that can be consistently counted on from a Chicago winter is the wave of cold temperatures that will wash over the area at some point. When this happens, it may be tempting to sit inside with a cup of coffee, but your work is not done. In order to comfortably rest this winter, you need to ensure that your landscape is well prepared for the coming onslaught of freezing temperatures. If your property is not properly prepared, the inevitable freezes can be very harmful to your landscape, in a multitude of ways. However, with our 70 years of experience, we know what these winters look like and how to minimize risk. Get out ahead, and utilize these tips and services you need for saving your commercial landscape from the cold.

Continue Routine Property Inspections

Before we dive into the preventative methods of saving your landscape from the cold, we must discuss routine behaviors. Just because the cold has set in does not mean your landscape has become stagnant. Staying on top of your property inspections is vital, as this will be the first tip-off to any potential issues. Making sure that you check irrigation systems, hardscapes, and drainage systems will give you peace of mind at the expense of a simple walkthrough. Your commercial landscaper can only fix a problem that is known, so stay on top of your property inspections, as the cold continues.

Mulch Installation: Protect your Plants

One of the most vital portions of your plant material is the roots, belowground within the soil. Your soil is not immune to the effects of dropping temperatures and needs to be treated as such. When you install mulch in the fall, you are helping to insulate your soil and keep your plants warm. Moisture retention is the name of the game, and mulch will do just that. Additionally, mulch will also prevent weed growth and expansion, while knocking an action item off your spring to-do list.

Last Call: Fall Fertilization

Winter is a time of dormancy, but not necessarily for weeds, pests, and diseases. Your turf and plant material are at their most vulnerable point during the peak of cold temperatures, and a final fall fertilization can provide the nutrients needed to push through the winter. These nutrients are not easily acquired on their own, and it becomes even tougher during the bleak season. When fertilizing in the fall, you can expect healthier growth come the following spring, whether it be your turf, trees, or shrubs.

Know your Snow: Leave it or Keep it

Landscapers across the country will tell you, there is a big difference between the layers of soft snow that sit atop different pieces of your landscape. Although this is little known, a layer of snow over your plant material during freezing temperatures is actually a good thing, insulating heat and keeping your plant material as warm as can be. Conversely, a layer of snow atop your shrubs is a bad thing, and the weight over time can cause damage to the shrub. Furthermore, a layer of snow and ice over your hardscapes is obviously bad, with the potential for accident and injury. Take care of snow when needed, and prevent harm to your property.

Pezza Landscape, Inc. is a full-service landscaping company proudly serving the greater Naperville area, including Warrenville, Wheaton, Winfield, Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles, and the surrounding communities. Give us a call at (630) 393-7373 or visit our website to get in touch. We offer services needed for saving your commercial landscape from the cold.