Living in the Tri-State means we get all four seasons, and every one of them leaves its mark on your lawn.

But ask us when the most important yard work of the year happens, and we’ll both give the same answer: fall.

When most folks are winding down for the holidays or watching the leaves fall, your lawn is still working. The roots are storing energy, your grass is still alive, and everything you do (or don’t do) in the fall will show up come spring.

We’ve spent years prepping yards in Huntington, Wayne, Ashland, and South Point for winter — and we can tell you exactly what to focus on before that first hard freeze rolls in.

Start With a Final Mow
(But Not Too Short)

One of the biggest mistakes we see folks make in the fall is mowing their grass too short. It might feel like a time-saver heading into winter, but cutting it down too far can stress your lawn when it’s trying to conserve energy. And if we get a surprise early frost, that short grass has no protection.

We recommend one last mow before the freeze — keep your grass around 2.5 to 3 inches. That height helps protect the roots from cold and disease while still preventing matting from leaves or snow.

If you’re used to handling your own mowing but don’t want to risk it too close to the freeze, give us a call. We’ll come out and make sure the job’s done right, without scalping your lawn.

Deal With Leaves Before They Settle In

A blanket of wet leaves is more than just messy — it blocks light and air, traps moisture, and encourages mold, fungus, and pests. Let that sit for a few weeks and your lawn won’t be happy come spring.

You’ve got a few good options:

• Rake or blow the leaves into piles and bag them

• Mulch them with your mower to feed the soil

• Call us for a professional cleanup if you’re short on time or just over it

We’ve cleaned up everything from postage-stamp lots to full-acre properties in Ashland, Barboursville, and backyards that haven’t been touched in months. No judgment here — just clean results.

Trim Edges, Beds, and Overgrowth

Fall is the time to give your property sharp edges. Think of it like putting the lawn to bed for the winter.

• Trim around sidewalks, fences, and flower beds
  

• Clear out any tall weeds along the perimeter
  

• Cut back perennials and reshape garden beds

• Get rid of any vines or brush that crept up over summer

Aerate if Needed — But Don’t Wait Too Long

If your lawn feels compacted or you’ve had heavy foot traffic, aerating in the fall helps oxygen and water reach the roots before the ground freezes.

It also gives seeds a chance to settle in and root, especially if you’re dealing with bare spots.

Timing matters, though. Aeration should happen at least 3 to 4 weeks before the first frost, so the lawn has time to recover. We usually recommend doing this in September in the Tri-State.

Clean Gutters and Drainage Areas

Clogged gutters and drains can wreak havoc on your property.

Water that can’t drain properly ends up soaking your yard, pooling near the foundation, or running right into your basement. Add frozen leaves to the mix, and it’s a mess no one wants in January.

Check these areas:

• Gutters and downspouts
  

• Yard drains or culverts
  

• Driveway edges and swales

• Any area where runoff collects

Final Cleanup and Inspection

Before the season fully closes, we do one last walkthrough on every property:

• Check trees for limbs that could fall in snow or wind
  

• Remove fallen limbs, sticks, or debris
  

• Make sure no trash, rocks, or toys are hidden in grass
  

• Look for signs of disease or pests starting to spread

• Tag any stumps, drainage problems, or repairs to address in spring

Why Fall Work Pays Off in Spring

We’ve said it for years: the yard you see in March is built in October.

Fall lawn cleanup isn’t just about keeping things pretty — it protects your soil, roots, structures, and curb appeal. It saves you money in the long run and gives your lawn a head start when the thaw hits.

Whether you’re planning to sell next year, prepping for family holidays, or just trying to stay ahead of the game, this is the season to get it done.