Year-Round Homeowner Guide for Maintaining Plants, Lawns, and Pests in Seattle, WA

Seattle’s climate, with its mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, requires a tailored approach to yard care. To keep your lawn healthy, your plants vibrant, and your outdoor space enjoyable year-round, it’s crucial to follow a season-by-season maintenance strategy. This guide will walk you through the key tasks for each season and offer advice on when to take the DIY route and when to call in a professional landscaper.

Season | Weather | Maintenance Tasks | Consider a Landscaper For

Winter (Dec – Feb)

Cold, wet, 30°F-50°F

Cover sensitive plants from frost.

Mulch to protect roots.

Prune dormant trees/shrubs.

Prune large trees.

Winter cleanup (leaves, debris).

Spring (Mar – May)

Cool, rainy

Fertilize lawn.

Weed control.

Plant flowers/vegetables.

Spring/Winter cleanup (leaves, debris).

Aeration & dethatching.

Garden design/upgrades.

Summer (Jun – Aug)

Warm, dry

Water deeply, mornings.

Check for pests.

Mow regularly.

Spring/Summer cleanup (leaves, debris).

Irrigation setup/maintenance.

Summer lawn treatments.

Fall (Sep – Nov)

Cool, rainy

Rake leaves.

Fertilize lawn for winter.

Plant spring bulbs.

Fall/Summer cleanup.

Lawn aeration.

Mulching.

Winter (December – February)

Weather: Cold, wet, occasional frost; daytime temperatures range from 30°F to 50°F.

Maintenance Tasks:

Protect Plants from Frost:
Cover sensitive plants with burlap or frost cloth to shield them from freezing temperatures. If you have potted plants, move them indoors or place them in a sheltered spot.

Mulching:
Apply a thick layer of mulch to garden beds. This helps insulate plant roots, prevents weed growth, and retains moisture through the winter.

Pruning:
Prune dormant trees and shrubs (such as fruit trees and roses) to promote stronger growth in the spring.

Lawn Care:
Avoid walking on frozen grass, as it can cause permanent damage. Mowing is not needed during winter, as grass growth slows down significantly.

Hire a Landscaper For:

Large Tree Pruning: Tall trees require specialized tools and knowledge to prune safely. A professional can manage this task and avoid potential risks.

Winter Cleanup: For large-scale leaf removal and overall yard cleanup, hiring a professional can save you time and energy, making the process efficient and thorough.

Spring (March – May)

Weather: Cool to mild, with frequent rainfall.

Maintenance Tasks:

Fertilize Lawn:
Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy grass growth as the weather warms.

Weed Control:
Hand-pull weeds or use organic weed control methods to prevent them from spreading.

Pest Control:
Slugs and snails tend to thrive in the damp spring climate. Use natural repellents like diatomaceous earth to keep them at bay.

Planting:
Spring is the best time to plant flowers, shrubs, and vegetables. The soil is soft, and the weather is conducive to healthy plant growth.

Hire a Landscaper For:

Aeration & Dethatching: These services help improve lawn health by enhancing water and nutrient absorption, promoting lush, green grass.

Garden Design: Spring is a great time to consult a landscaper if you want to redesign your garden or add new features. They can help you create a balanced and attractive layout.

Summer (June – August)

Weather: Warm and dry, with occasional heatwaves.

Maintenance Tasks:

Watering:
Water deeply but infrequently, preferably in the early morning. This encourages deep root growth, which is crucial for drought resistance. Consider installing a drip irrigation system for more efficient watering, especially for flower beds and vegetable gardens.

Pest Monitoring:
Summer heat attracts pests like aphids, spider mites, and other insects. Regularly check for signs of infestation and use organic remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Lawn Mowing:
Mow your lawn regularly, keeping the grass at a height of 3-4 inches. This helps protect the roots from extreme heat and keeps your lawn looking tidy.

Weed Control:
Weeds tend to grow faster in the summer, so stay vigilant and remove them regularly to keep your lawn and garden healthy.

Hire a Landscaper For:

Irrigation System Installation or Maintenance: Professionals can install or maintain drip or sprinkler systems, ensuring that your watering is efficient and effective during the hot summer months.

Lawn Treatments: Summer is an ideal time to apply organic pest control or fertilizers, which can help maintain the health of your lawn throughout the season.

Fall (September – November)

Weather: Cool, rainy, with shorter days.

Maintenance Tasks:

Leaf Cleanup:
Regularly rake and compost fallen leaves. This prevents mold buildup and keeps your lawn healthy by allowing it to breathe and receive sunlight.

Fertilize Lawn:
Apply a high-nitrogen fertilizer early in the fall to prepare the grass for the winter months.

Pruning and Planting:
As plants enter dormancy, cut back perennials and prune shrubs to maintain healthy growth. Fall is also an excellent time to plant bulbs like tulips and daffodils for beautiful spring blooms.

Weed Control:
Pull any remaining weeds before they go to seed, as they can spread over the winter and pop up in the spring.

Hire a Landscaper For:

Fall Cleanup: Large-scale leaf removal and yard cleanups are best handled by a professional landscaper to prepare your yard for winter.

Lawn Aeration: Aerating your lawn in the fall improves water absorption and root health, helping your grass stay strong through the colder months.

Mulching: Apply a protective layer of mulch to garden beds to insulate plants from winter frost and retain moisture.

When to Hire a Landscaper

While there are plenty of tasks you can handle yourself, some projects require a professional touch:

Large Projects or Overgrowth: Tasks such as tree pruning, large landscape installations, or dealing with severely overgrown yards are better suited for landscapers who have the necessary equipment and expertise.

Seasonal Services: Services like aeration, dethatching, irrigation setup, and large seasonal cleanups (spring or fall) are often more efficient when handled by professionals.

Complex Garden Designs: If you’re looking for a custom garden layout, including patios, walkways, or intricate features, it’s best to consult a landscaper to ensure the design is both beautiful and functional.

Lawn Treatment: If your lawn is dealing with pests, weeds, or severe health issues, a professional landscaper can apply targeted treatments to restore its vitality.

By following this seasonal guide, Seattle homeowners can maintain a healthy and beautiful yard all year long. Whether you’re tackling smaller tasks on your own or hiring a professional for larger jobs, the key is consistent care and adapting to each season’s specific needs. This approach will help you manage pests, weeds, and frost protection, ensuring your landscape thrives in Seattle’s unique climate.