Parenting Pointers: Fall Outdoor Yard Care

I had a chance to interview Kris Kiser of OPEI to learn more.

Why do families need to think about outdoor yard care during the fall?

Fall is the best time of year to prepare your yard for spring, says Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) and TurfMutt, an environmental education and stewardship program. Lay the groundwork for a great springtime yard by doing some landscape chores in the fall.

When people are planning their living landscapes, what are some things they need to take into account as far as seasonal changes?

Kiser says, “Seasonal changes mean you need to prepare yard for the next season, while caring for its needs today. People know to plant flower bulbs in the fall, but this time of year is perfect for mowing, mulching, aerating, trimming and patching your yard.”

The leaves you mulch now into your lawn, will provide nutrients that make your grass healthier. Grasscycling in the fall adds grass clippings back to the lawn while also delivering nutrition and strengthening your turfgrass.

After all, a healthy yard will give back to you, says Kiser. “Your living landscape does a lot. It produces oxygen, reduces the urban heat island effect, filters and captures runoff, improves air quality, controls erosion, absorbs carbon dioxide, and supports biodiversity. Your family, wildlife and pets benefit when your yard is in top shape.”