Keep Watering!

Mulch!

Perennial Clean-up!

Removing the stalks and foliage of perennials is a matter of personal preference. some homeowners prefer cleaner looking beds throughout the winter and cut all of their perennials down. However, others appreciate the visual interest that plants such as ornamental grasses, sedums, and coneflowers offer throughout the winter when left standing

Clean out Planting Pots!

Disconnect and drain hoses!

Disconnect and drain all hoses and pipes. Store them in a garage or shed to keep freezing water from bursting them. Don't forget to turn off outdoor water spigots!

Protect your Irrigation System!

It is imperative to winterize your irrigation system during the winter months. Clearing the lines of all water keeps the pipes from freezing and damaging your entire system. It is also importatnt to disconnect your backflow preventer and store it in your home or garage.

Winterize your Water Features!

• Bubbling Urn Style Water Features: During periods of freezing conditions it is recommended to turn off the pump and let the fountain feature drain completely into the basin underneath. It is best to store the vases in a dry area or to cover with a tarp to keep moisture from accumulating and freezing inside, which will crack the vase.
• Natural Water Features: You may or may not want to run your pump and filter system through the winter. This will depend on several factors, including climate. If you live in a climate with temperatures mostly well above freezing then it will be to your advantage to keep your pump and filter running throughout the winter. In this case it is a good idea to minimize the water circulation in order to take advantage of the layering effect of the water. The other option is to turn off pumps and filters for the winter, however, if you do be sure to drain all plumbing. External filters, UV's, and external pumps will need to be drained. Subersible pumps should be left in the pond or in a bucket of water in a warm place to keep the seals from drying out.
• Formal Water Features: It is important to drain the water from the fountain basin. The pump/filter should be disconnected and stored in a dry area.

Winterize your Outdoor Kitchen:

• Clean out the interior and exterior of the grill, cabinets and refrigerator. If you can get to the back of the refrigeration unit, make sure you remove leaves, dirt, etc. that may have accumulated around the condensing unit.
• Turn off the water supply if you have a sink and/or ice maker. Allow the remaining water to run out of hoses or faucets. This prevents water from freezing inside the lines, causing ruptures and big repair bills.
• Outdoor refrigeration doesn’t work well when the outside temperature is colder than the refrigerator’s interior. If the power cord is easily accessible, unplug the appliance. If not, turn off the circuit breaker serving the appliance.
• Use stainless cleaner and polish on all exteriors except glass. Use the same cleaner and polish on all cabinet and refrigeration units (only if the interiors are stainless steel).
• Use a synthetic material for the cover that does not trap and hold moisture and can withstand the elements.