Preparing Your Outdoors for Winter in Kansas City

Many of us tend to forget that our lawns still require care during the winter months. There are many things you can do to prepare and protect your yard for the cold winter days. If you’re looking for some winter care tips, Heinen Landscape has put together a few things to keep in mind as the leaves change and we gear up for winter!

If you’ve taken some of your plants outside for the summer to enjoy the warm sun and fresh air, don’t forget to bring them back inside! It’s usually not as simple as just moving a pot from one place to another. You’ll want to be sure that you get rid of any pests that have made their way into the dirt over the summer. These pesky bugs might hitchhike over to your other indoor plants and around your house. You can use a hose to water and help knock off any unwanted pests like spider mites. If your plant has grown significantly since being outside, you might consider repotting them.

And don’t forget the fall cleanup for your garden! It’s important to keep your garden clean and in shape, even during the long winter. Start by removing anything you use to support your plants like tomato cages or bean stakes. Also, be sure to get rid of any dead plants or vegetables. If any plants look like they may be carrying a disease, dispose of those plants by either throwing them away or burning them.

Plan your winter landscape during the warmer days of fall! Some plants that are popular for winter landscapes include those that contain colorful berries, catch snow on the branches, have a delicate structure, or showcase bark that is colorful or an unusual texture. There are many plants that thrive in the cold winter months in Kansas City. Sign up for free access to our Heinen Plant Catalog to give you a better idea of which plants work better during winter in the cold Kansas City winter climate.

Fall is a great time to start planning your spring projects! It’s the perfect time to assess the needs of your home and those projects you’ve been thinking about doing for years. Anything from retaining walls to planning the installation for that outdoor patio you’ve always dreamed of. The landscape specialists at Heinen can help you create a cost effective plan that is well-suited to your property. If you book with Heinen in the fall for a spring project, you’ll be first on our list in the spring – and you’ll have the entire summer to enjoy your new landscape!

Of course with the leaves changing colors, this time of year is always beautiful in and around Kansas City. We thought we’d share a list from The Missouri Department of Conservation of some of the best places to see fall foliage in Kansas City

• Loose Park: Kansas City, Mo.
• Park University: Parkville, Mo
• Weston Bend State Park: Weston, Mo.
• Powell Gardens: Kingsville, Mo.
• Shawnee Mission Park: Shawnee, Kan.
• Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens: Overland Park, Kan.
• Longview Park & Lake: Kansas City, Mo.

The outdoor experts at Heinen Landscape would love to help you get started on planning your next project. From winter landscaping needs to making that area outdoor kitchen come alive next spring – or just getting your irrigation system inspected and winterized, Heinen Landscape caters to all of your outdoor needs! Call Debbie at Heinen for all of your landscape needs or to schedule a complimentary spring project estimate today at 913-432-5011.

Thank you to landscaping.about.com and gardeningknowhow.com for the tips!