Can you believe it’s already November? In no time at all, Northern Arizona families will be gathering for delicious food, a great time together, and (hopefully) time outdoors. Thanks to our climate, Prescott families have the chance to enjoy their yard and landscaping year-round. But if you had a busy fall and summer, you may be feeling a little behind on clean-up. Here’s what we recommend.
Rake and Bag Leaves
Raking and bagging leaves does take a little time, but it’s one of those chores that is noticeable when you do it (and when you don’t). Along with the sense of satisfaction from a job well done, raking leaves also makes it easier for your yard and any nearby plants and shrubs to get appropriate light and moisture. Make sure you also clear leaves from any woodworking (like decking, porches, or entry ramps). When leaves get wet, the oil that seeps out can damage the staining on your woodwork.
Don’t forget: leaves make great compost and much, so bag/store them in biodegradable containers until they’re ready to work their magic for your plants and shrubs.
Start root care Now
Fall is the ideal time to fertilize the native trees, plants, and grasses growing on your property. Root systems store nutrients and energy from fertilizers for healthy, robust growth in the warmer months. Make sure you’re using the right fertilizer for what’s growing near your home, and don’t forget to water in your fertilizer immediately after application for best results.
Get Rid of Weeds Before They Pop Up
Fall is also a great time to apply pre-emergent weed control treatments to your yard. As with fertilizer, you’ll need to follow application timing guidelines and water in your fall weed killer right after you apply it.
Get Your Fire Pit Ready
Fire pits are a must for those delightful, cooler fall and winter evenings we love. If you already have a fire pit, make sure it’s in good working order and that the area is properly cleaned and has adequate seating. That way, everyone has a place to get cozy. Always wanted a fire pit? Backyard fire pit installation is quick and affordable. And if you’re feeling industrious, you can always try building your own.
Trim Trees and Shrubs
Carefully pruned trees and shrubs don’t just look nice; they improve the long-term health of these beautiful, hardy plants. Knowing where and how to prune is important: over-pruning could stunt or halt growth, and not pruning enough won’t effectively protect plants and trees from disease.
Don’t Stress! Let Us Help
If your pre-holiday to-do list is already a mile-long, don’t worry. You can check off your lawn and landscaping tasks with one call. Zebrascapes are Northern Arizona landscaping experts. We’ll quickly take care of yard cleanup, tree pruning, irrigation checks, outdoor living upgrades, and more. There’s no place like home for the holidays. Contact us to make sure yours looks great this season, surrounded by a beautiful landscape.
Fall in Northern Arizona is a great time for tree fertilization and root care. Here’s why you shouldn’t skip fall fertilizing if you’ve got local trees growing on your property.
Why Fertilize Trees in the Fall?
Fall is a great time to fertilize trees because tree roots need year-round care and nurturing. Fertilization promotes root growth: tree roots store energy and nutrients from the fertilizer for use during winter dormancy. That gives them a strong start in the spring.
The weather helps boost the impact of fall fertilizing, too. The combination of warm soil and cool air stimulates tree root activity, even though top growth has slowed. Nutrients from fall fertilizing application are used by the roots to strengthen themselves for the next growing season.
A strong, well-developed root system makes the tree hardier throughout the year. And the nutrients stored/delivered through the roots after fertilization help the tree recover from summer heat and other stressors.
how to fertilize your trees this fall
Here’s how to get the best results when you fertilize your trees this fall:
Consider testing your soil: An arborist can do a soil test to determine the specific nutrient needs of trees on your property. That way, you get exactly the right kind of fertilizer for your trees and plants.
Timing is key: Fertilize in time for nutrients to be absorbed before the ground freezes, but not so late that root activity has stopped. Freezing ground isn’t common in all areas of Arizona, but this could be an issue at higher elevations.
Choose a slow-release fertilizer: This delivers nutrients gradually, and at the right time especially during trees’ dormant period.
Check the ingredients: Fertilizers with phosphorus and potassium are often recommended for strong tree root growth.
Fall Tree Watering and Mulching Tips
Proper tree watering and mulching are great additions to your fall root care checklist. When watering trees in the fall, water thoroughly during dry spells. Deep watering soaks the soil and encourages deep root growth. Well-watered tree roots better withstand winter stress. Newly-planted or recently-stressed trees need more watering to increase their chances of having a strong root system before winter.
If you live in higher elevations, stop watering trees when the ground starts to freeze. That helps you avoid trapping water around the roots, which can cause root damage.
Using natural mulch like wood chips or compost helps your trees retain moisture from the soil, moderate the soil temperature, and (of course) adds nutrients. When applying mulch, spread a 3 to 6-inch layer of mulch around the base of your trees. Be careful to avoid tree trunks to prevent tree disease, rot, and pest problems.
Want Healthier Trees? We’re Here to Help
We love to see happy, healthy trees growing throughout Northern Arizona. We’re happy to help you tackle your fall tree care to-do list. Whether you need tree trimming, pruning, or fertilizer application, we can get it done. We’re also happy to recommend how to set up and adjust your irrigation systems to water your trees for best results. Contact us today to schedule your tree care projects.
When fall arrives in Camp Verde, AZ, it’s natural to want to slow things down and relax. But without fall landscape cleanup, your yard may struggle the following spring and summer. A fall yard cleanup plan is a must to keep trees, grasses, plants, and shrubs healthy and happy this fall and beyond. Here’s what Zebrascapes’ local landscape contractors suggest for fall cleanup.
Raking and Composting Leaves
If you happen to be lucky enough to live near lots of trees, raking leaves could improve your lawn health and growth. Raking improves air circulation and sunlight exposure on your lawn, and is a good idea if anyone in your home has leaf mold allergies.
While a few scattered leaves won’t hurt your yard, thick layers of leaves may suffocate grass, promote fungal diseases, and prevent sunlight from reaching the lawn. Because of that, raking can give photosynthesis and root health a boost. Reusing leaves for compost or mulch makes planters and flower beds more nutrient rich.
Checking and Adjusting Your Irrigation System
Make sure your home irrigation system is properly adjusted for fall weather patterns, if it doesn’t do so automatically. Check it for proper functionality, and consider if drip irrigation is a good option for watering your lawn and plants in the autumn season.
Pool Care and Covering
If you have a backyard pool that’s not heated (and that you aren’t planning to use during the winter), close it properly to minimize maintenance issues in the spring. This includes cleaning around your pool, emptying out the skimmer, and covering the pool until you’re ready to use it again.
Tree Trimming and Pruning
Trimming trees is a great way to set them up for healthy, robust growth in the fall. You’ll need to confirm which trees on your property grow best with fall pruning, and make sure you only prune where necessary. Proper pruning will prevent tree disease and improve “delivery” of water, sunlight, and nutrients to all parts of the tree.
Weed Control and Plant Care
Fall doesn’t mean you have to stop planting. In fact, there’s plenty of weed care, planting, and garden tending that can be done in the fall for any Green Thumbs out there.
Fall Pre-Emergent Application: Applying pre-emergent herbicides in the fall is a must for a healthy, weed-free lawn when things heat back up.
Fertilizing: Fall is also a great time for fertilizing trees, lawns, and planters. Get the right type for what your plants need (and don’t forget to water it in). This is a great way to promote root health and prevent weakness.
Fall Planting: You can remove dead plants and shrubs and replace them with fall-blooming, local plants that bring color and variety to your yard all autumn. There are also certain vegetables and spring flowering plants that its best to plant in the fall.
Your One-Stop Shop for Fall Yard Care and Cleanup
If you’re behind on fall yard cleanup, don’t worry. Zebrascapes is here to help with lawn care, landscaping, tree pruning, irrigation services, and more. Get everything checked off your list and get back to enjoying the beauty of the season. Call us today to schedule your landscaping services.
Fall in Chino Valley, Arizona, is a little crisper and cooler. But sometimes, it’s not as green. As spring and summer plants droop, it’s tempting to feel a little down. But there are plenty of plants and shrubs that can keep your curb appeal (and your spirits) up this fall. Here are some suggestions from the landscaping experts at Zebrascapes.
evergreen fall plants
Arizona Yellow Bells: These beautiful, sun-loving shrubs have clusters of bright yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom from spring through fall. We love how vigorously they grow!
Creosote bush: This native shrub is tough, drought-tolerant, and hardy while still bringing color and beauty to any yard.
Fairy Duster: The fairy duster has bright, fluffy flowers that make it a popular choice for sprucing up a fall landscape.
Colorful Fall Shrubs & Grasses
To make the most of color in Arizona, plant shrubs with fall-blooming flowers and colorful foliage. Here are a few that grow well in our climate:
Azaleas: Some azaleas, like Encore Azaleas, bloom well in our area in Arizona. They’ve got beautiful, delicate blooms, but can still withstand the cooler fall temperatures.
Brittlebush: This native shrub is drought-tolerant with bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom in the fall.
Heavenly Bamboo: Thanks to its berries and foliage, this striking plant blooms in a range of colors, including red, burgundy, gold, and purple.
Purple Hopseed: Grows in red, burgundy, gold, and purple in its foliage.
Pink Muhly Grass: This ornamental grass is native to the area, growing a vibrant pink, feathery bloom in the fall.
Black Dalea: A fall-blooming, purple, flowering shrub that adds depth and dimension to planters and flower beds.
Less Water and More Green: Artificial Turf
If you’re looking for a way to cut down on watering this fall and beyond, artificial turf installation is a great solution. It’s weather-resistant and water-wise (thanks to its built in drainage). And of course, it keeps its vibrant green color year-round, no matter the weather. Many of our clients enjoy having artificial grass because they’re spending less time on the yard and more time in their garden, tending to the plants, trees, and shrubs they enjoy most.
There are lots of options when it comes to turf, including kid and pet safe brands. If you’re not sure where to start, our experts can walk you through the options to see if there’s a good fit.
Get Fall Planting, Cleanup, and Upgrades Done Fast
Now is the time to take care of fall landscaping. If your to-do list is already long, we’re ready to help. Our local landscaping contractors can schedule and complete all your front and backyard landscape maintenance.
Cleaning up leaves, refreshing planters and beds, and rolling out upgrades: we love helping you realize your vision for a more beautiful, hassle-free yard. If you’re ready to enjoy the Arizona fall with peace of mind, contact us to schedule your fall planting and landscaping services today.
Fall fertilizer (or lack thereof) can have a big impact on your yard year-round in Clarkdale, AZ. Without proper nutrients, your lawn can come back patchy, weak, and undernourished. No one wants a spring and summer lawn that just won’t grow. Here’s what you need to know about fertilizing your yard in the fall, from our lawn care and landscaping experts.
What Happens When You Skip Fall Fertilizer?
You won’t be able to tell on the surface, but if you skip fall fertilizing, your lawn and flower beds have some nasty tricks in store. Without its nutrient boost, outdoor plants and grasses enter winter with weaker roots and less stored energy. That means, when spring comes, you’ll see:
Slower Growth
Patchier Appearance After Growth
Increased Susceptibility to pests, Plant Disease and Deterioration
That’s why fall feeding is critical. It strengthening root systems and delivers nutrients that remain stored there until it’s time for its comeback in the spring. Fall fertilizer ensures that comeback is quick, vibrant, and beautiful.
Northern arizona fall fertilizer tips
For cool-season grasses in higher elevations, we recommend two applications: one from late August to mid-September, and the second from mid-October to mid-November.
Apply it in two passes, first in one direction and then perpendicular to it, for even coverage. Since there’s a range of time when you can apply it with good results, monitor the temperatures. Fall fertilize when daytime temperatures are consistently below 80°F and soil temperatures are below 65°F
A high-nitrogen fertilizer (2/3 of yearly nitrogen: 3-1-2 NPK ratio, or about 1.5 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 sq. ft.) should be used on the first application to promote root growth. For the second, use either a slow-release formula or one higher in potassium. If you’re in a cooler climate, do this before you expect the ground to freeze.
Water the fertilizer into the lawn immediately after each application to prevent burn and runoff.
Treat Your Yard This Halloween
Fall fertilizing is one of the best ways to treat your yard and plants to a happy, healthy spring. Since autumn is an ideal time for cool-season grasses to grow new roots, fertilizing will improving its winter hardiness. These stored nutriets will allow fast, full growth when the weather warms back up. And its natural weed control is an added bonus. Never applied fertilizer yourself? Never fear.
Call the pros at Zebrascapes. We take all the spookiness out of landscaping and lawn care. We get the timing just right, apply the highest-quality products, and make sure your yard is clean and healthy, no matter the season. Contact us to schedule your fall cleanup, fertilizing, or weed care service today.
Fall and winter mean less yard work… eventually in Cottonwood, AZ. Before taking the season off, fall cleanup is a must. Timely fall landscape cleanup promotes healthy, attractive growth throughout the year. Here’s what to put on your to-do list.
Fall Planting
Those of us with green thumbs love getting our fall planting done. When planting bulbs, find a well-drained, sunny spot in the soil. Plant several inches down (about 3x the height of each bulb). The pointed end of the bulb should face downward. Just starting your garden? You’ve got options. Plenty of plants grow well in Northern Arizona, like asters, penstemons, and desert marigolds. It’s also the best time to plant spring-bloomers like tulips and daffodils.
Have some xeriscaping? Prep it for a healthy fall. Remove dead/dying plans, clear out weeds, and prune back any overgrown shrubs. This will keep these water-wise plants green and happy throughout the fall and winter. Adding fresh mulch in the fall retains moisture and helps prevent weed growth. It also protects plant roots from the effects of temperature fluctuation while sprucing up the look of your yard and flower beds.
Irrigation Check-Up
When temperatures cool, make sure your home irrigation system is working its best. Adjust your watering schedule and method so it’s seasonally-appropriate. Drip irrigation is a great option in our area. It waters plant roots directly. Runoff and evaporation (water waste) are minimized or avoided completely. Check your system for any blockages or leaks. Schedule any necessary repairs if you notice a problem.
Debris & Leaf Clearing
Prescott and the rest of Northern Arizona may not have as many natural lawns as other areas, but those who do will still see plenty of leaves. Clearing leaves isn’t just about tidying up. Removing debris from your yard is helps prevent pests and the spread of bacteria/plant disease they carry. Yard cleanup also helps plants get adequate water and sunlight. After you rake or use your leaf-blower, we suggest composting your leaves. Leaf composting reduces waste and gives you a fresh supply of nutrient-rich mulch.
Don’t Forget Trees and Shrubs
Shrub and tree pruning are essential to maintaining their health, growth, and appearance. Fall is the perfect time to remove dead or diseased tree branches to prevent the spread of common tree diseases and encourage new growth. If you’ve never pruned before, be sure to research where and how to prune each plant, and wear protective gear while you work.
Generally, pruning any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other is appropriate. It’s also good to prune any part of the tree or shrub that blocks the rest of the plant from getting adequate light and water. If you have any doubts, don’t make any cuts. Professional tree-trimming services is the safest bet for maintaining healthy trees.
Clean-Up Piling Up? We Can Help
We all love a cool, crisp Northern Arizona fall. But keeping track of cleanup can get away from you if there’s already a lot on your plate. Zebrascapes is here to help with landscape cleanup and maintenance services you can depend on. We can prepare your yard for late fall and winter so that plants, trees, and grass will all enjoy a thriving spring. Contact us today to schedule your fall cleanup service.
We’re not the only ones in Prescott Valley, AZ with green thumbs, and we love helping our fellow gardeners If you’re looking to spruce up your lawn and garden in the coming months, now is the time to plan (and plant) for the future. Here are some tips from our landscaping experts.
Northern AZ Fall Planting: Our Tips and Tricks
Don’t be afraid to plant directly in the soil. According to Almanac.org, “Many crops that are typically started indoors for spring can be planted directly in the soil for fall. Warm soil, fewer pests, and seasonal rainfall make it easier to grow. Some crops must be harvested by the first frost, but many are frost-tolerant and even taste sweeter after a light frost.”
If you’re a home gardener in AZ, your September checklist is long. But don’t worry, all the work is worth it. Careful planning now brings you a bountiful harvest later In early September, you should:
Take care of weed control. Fall pre-emergent treatments are the best way to safeguard against invasive winter weeds.
Plant fall flowers and pull summer ones. Your favorite home and garden store has a lot of beautiful options
Use insect preventatives in early flowers and vegetables.
Start planting winter veggies.
Mid-September is the time to plant your garlic bulbs and iris starts. If you’re lucky enough to have fruit trees, fertilize your citrus this week. If you’re wanting to try fruit tree gardening, it’s also a great time for planting.
Early fall is also ideal for most tree care and pruning. Keeping those trees healthy and strong now is an effort you’ll be thankful for in the spring. Lightly prune and fertilize your roses now, too. Those beautiful flowers need time and space to grow.
If you have natural grass, this is the time to prep your winter ryegrass seed. You don’t need a large area for a lush winter lawn.
Late September is closer than you think. That’s when landscape clean up, including tree and shrub fertilization, should get done for best results. Select seeds for your indoor fall and winter garden, and plant that ryegrass once nighttime temperatures are consistently about 65 degrees.
Don’t Miss Another Planting Deadline
Missing fall planting and landscaping dates can mean disappointing results for your winter and spring home gardening. Fall is a busy time of year for many families, and not all of us stay on top of our fall gardening calendar. But you don’t have to leave it to chance.
Zebrascapes is the local landscaping team trusted by Prescott AZ to keep their lawns, trees, and gardens thriving year round. Whatever your vision for you front yard, tree grove, or back garden, we can make it happen. We’ll plan and complete your projects on time every season.
You can enjoy the bliss of a stunning yard and garden without any of the headaches of time-sensitive planning, maintenance, and upkeep. Ready to cross some to-dos off your list? Contact us today to schedule lawn care and landscape maintenance services for your home this fall.