Spring
Your landscape will start to grow for the new year, and there are key issues that you need to address.
- This is the beginning of new growth. To keep your plants happy and healthy, fertilize your lawn.
- Mulching is another option to consider. Mulch can be another option. A good layer of mulch should be at least 3-4 inches thick. This will stop weeds from quickly taking over your beds.
- Jacksonville is not prone to prolonged hard freezes, but it's a good idea check your irrigation system for any breaks and to verify water coverage.
- Also, you might want to clean out your gutters if they are not already. You will need to keep your roof from letting in water and direct the water to the right places.

Summer
Everything is growing now that the growing season has begun. These tips will help you maintain your landscape.
- Water, water, water! Don't worry! It is going to take some work on your lawn during the summer. Also, make sure you don't over- or under-water it. We need to be aware of signs of stress, regardless of whether we are experiencing a severe storm or a drought.
- It is a good idea to check your irrigation regularly during summer. Check that your irrigation heads are working properly, that your rain sensor is functioning as it should, and that you water on the right days of the week
- Summer months can be a rough time for insects. It is important to be aware of the potential dangers posed by insects to your health and to protect your property. Be aware of bees and wasps as well as fire ants and mosquitoes. You may want to call an expert to remove or kill any bees, fire ants, or wasps that you find on your property. You can discourage the spread of mosquitoes by getting rid of any items that could hold water on your property. (i.e. Dishes, wheel barrows. It is a good idea to get professional help if your lawn is wilting or has white-skinned bugs.
- Regularly trim and shape shrubs and trees. To encourage new growth, you will need to trim or shape dead or dying branches.
- You will be in full weed attack if you don't maintain them regularly. It is inevitable that there will be weeds. However, if you take the time to maintain them now, you will save time and money over waiting until they are out of control. It could also cause damage to your lawn and landscape.

Fall
The growth of our lawns and plants is slowing down. There are now a few priorities that we need to consider.
- At the start of fall, prune dead or dying branches. This will promote new growth that is strong enough to withstand the winter months. You should not prune too late in the growing season as this can encourage new growth that could be damaged by frost.
- Fertilizing and applying a pre-emergent to the grass and plants will help them to withstand the winter months. It will also prevent frost damage and prepare them for the spring.
- Although leaf removal can be annoying, raking the leaves on a regular basis will keep grass and shrubs healthy. To do this, rake the leaves with a large shovel like a grain shovel and then scoop them into a bag. Although a leaf blower might seem to save time, it is difficult to use one to get leaves into a pile you can place in a bag.
- You may like to grow flowers such as Easter Lilies, Crinums and Caladiums from bulbs. Now is the time plan your spring planting plans and plant them.

Winter
Although the year is ending, there are still some things you can do to prepare for this spring season.
- Mulching is essential this time of the year as it acts as a barrier against frost in winter.
- If there is a chance of freezing, it is important to protect tender or succulent plants from the chill. Cover them before it gets dark! The garden's heat is already lost by the time it turns dark. To create a tent, cover the frame with newspaper, cardboard, plastic sheets, or bed sheeting. You can also use the cover to protect the plant if you don't have the time or patience to make a frame. This will slow down heat loss from the ground and foliage. Afterwe the frost has thawed in the morning, remove the covers to allow the sunlight and fresh air to return in the morning.
- This is a great time to have your lawn equipment ready for spring. Winter discounts are often offered by many repair shops during this slow season.
