Fall is the time when a lawn care business owner can take advantage of the season to grow the business. Since grass is not growing as rapidly, landscaping and grass-cutting professionals can focus on a Fall cleanup–a great way to allow a yard to thrive during the colder months in order for it to grow back lush and green in the Spring.
A Fall Cleanup suggestion for a lawn is generally much appreciated by a lawn care customer; and it offers a way to keep your business cash flow strong when the crisp, cooler air limits the growth of grass and shrubbery.
Here are services a Fall cleanup should include.
- You should rake the leaves and remove weeds and debris from the yard. Unfortunately, a layer of leaves and other foliage, especially if it is a thick layer, can be a breeding ground for pests and diseases. Taking leaves out of the yard will certainly reduce this possibility and keep the lawn safer for use. If it is not possible to rake the leaves, then run the lawnmower over them so they will break into bits and serve as mulch. Either of these choices should prevent serious issues in the Spring such as dead grass and bare patches. It will keep the grass from requiring a reseeding later.
- You should fertilize grass, shrubbery and trees. Fall is a great time to apply fertilizer. After a long, hot growing season in which plants have depleted the soil of nutrients, it is vital to replace these nutrients–particularly nitrogen–to keep the soil healthy. A good nitrogen rich fertilizer should be distributed evenly over the yard and by shrubs and trees. Additionally, mulch placed around shrubs and trees will help protect the roots and keep foliage healthy.
- As long as the bushes are not a flowering variety of plant, it’s a good idea to prune them at the beginning of Fall before the weather gets cold. Pruning will allow more sunlight to shine into the middle of the shrub and leave the customer with a sturdier plant. Pruning trees should be done in late Fall after the leaves have fallen off the tree. Both trees and bushes will be healthier and less likely to attract pests if diseased or dead branches are cut away.
Listening to your customer carefully and doing an excellent job with Fall Cleanup can get you repeat business. It will also help with word of mouth referrals and great online reviews that can land you new business. And, as you engage in a Fall Cleanup, it’s a great idea to bring your customer’s attention to details that may help that customer keep the yard looking great. For example, if you notice any plants outdoors that may need to be brought inside to protect them from the cold weather, you can talk about this and offer to help. You may be pleasantly surprised that the customer will appreciate your keen eye for a beautiful lawn. And, that can translate into continued business for many years to come,