When to Schedule Your Fall Landscape Cleanup

Fall cleanup isn't just about raking leaves—it's about strategic preparation that sets your landscape up for success through winter and into the following growing season. In Central Texas, timing these tasks correctly can mean the difference between a thriving spring garden and months of catch-up work.

Early Fall: September to October

Start with your most heat-stressed areas. Remove spent annuals and dead plant material, but resist the urge to cut back perennials that provide winter interest or wildlife food. This is also the perfect time to overseed cool-season grasses and plant new trees—they'll establish strong root systems before summer heat returns.

Late Fall: November Tasks

Wait until after the first freeze to tackle major pruning. Tender plants like roses benefit from light cleanup, while hardy natives should be left standing until spring. Apply mulch around sensitive plants, but keep it away from tree trunks to prevent pest problems.

December: Final Preparations

Complete your leaf removal from turf areas—decomposing leaves can create fungal problems in our humid winter conditions. However, consider leaving leaf litter in flower beds as natural mulch and wildlife habitat. Wrap or protect tender plants from potential freeze damage.

Proper fall cleanup timing protects your investment while supporting local ecosystems. The experts atPflugerville Landscaping understand these seasonal rhythms and can help you develop a customized maintenance schedule that maximizes your landscape's health and beauty year-round.