Summer maintenance chores are a popular excuse for getting outside and enjoying working in the garden. You might also be motivated to have your backyard looking its best when hosting a barbecue or having friends over to chill by the pool. Check out these yard maintenance tips guaranteed to keep you safe while getting, and keeping, your property in good shape this summer.
Equipment
Home maintenance typically requires you to use equipment. Inspect ladders, power tools, and any other pieces of equipment before you use them. Ensure the lawnmower blades are sharpened and the trimmer is in good working order. Check that the ladder doesn’t have warped or rusted rungs; it opens to full capacity (stepladder) and stays locked in place; and if you are using a straight or extension ladder the hardware works properly and is not loose or damaged.
Put away tools and equipment such as rakes, shovels, the tiller, the mower, or heavy duty pruning shears after you are finished using them. It’s a good habit to get into especially if you have children and/or pets.
Working in the Heat
In the lower mainland, the actual temperature can be deceptive. The forecast might say 23° C but when you’re gardening or doing lawn care it can feel hotter. Stay hydrated.
If you will be working in part of the backyard or front yard that has no shade, put on sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat with a brim.
Take breaks. Sit in the shade while hydrating.
Water the Lawn Wisely
To make sure that your lawn, landscaping, and plants get the full benefit, water the garden early in the morning or mid-evening after the heat of the day. Keep in mind that when you attach the garden hose and turn on the tap you are using tap water that has been treated and tested in accordance with strict and high municipality bylaws and standards.
To conserve water and reduce the amount you’ll be using on your lawn and in the garden, prioritize the areas of your property that need watering. If you don’t have one already consider installing a rain barrel or several rain barrels – rainwater is good for watering plants, watering grass, washing gardening tools, and cleaning off equipment.
Don’t let Weeds Win
Weeds are flowers too, right? Yes they are, but when plants such as weeds are not part of your landscaping design they can use up nutrients, moisture, and other resources that could be better utilized by the lawn and plants in your garden. As soon as weeds make an appearance pull them by the roots before they have a chance to seed and populate your lawn.
Gutters and Downspouts
Save a thorough gutter cleaning for the fall but make it part of your summer maintenance chores to check up on the gutters and downspouts. Use binoculars instead of a ladder. Look for damage (holes, dents) done to gutter sections; loose hardware or nails/screws on the lawn underneath the eaves; and loose brackets on the downspouts holding them in place on the siding.
Also inspect the gutters and downspouts after a windstorm or rainstorm to ensure the downspouts haven’t disconnected from the gutters and the gutters working properly.
Check the roof and gutter system for nesters. Call a pest control service if necessary – you want to avoid the critters from causing health problems or invading your home.
