As the leaves begin to change and the temperatures start to drop, it’s important for short-term rental hosts to take some time to prepare their outdoor spaces for the winter. By taking some proactive measures, you can ensure that your property is ready to welcome guests throughout the year.
General Maintenance
- Clear Debris: Remove any dead leaves, debris, and fallen branches from your lawn, walkways, and patios.
- Trim Plants: Trim any overgrown plants, shrubs, or trees to prevent them from becoming damaged during winter storms.
- Store Outdoor Furniture and Decor: Clean and put away any patio furniture or outdoor decor that won’t be used during the winter months.
- Winterize Water Features: Close up and winterize any outdoor water features, such as fountains or pools, according to local guidelines.
- Inspect Outdoor Structures: Check for any damage to outdoor structures, such as decks, fences, or railings, and make repairs as necessary.
Lawn Care
- Final Mow: Mow the lawn one last time before the winter to promote healthy growth in the spring.
- Rake Leaves: Rake up any remaining leaves to prevent them from smothering your lawn and creating a slippery surface.
- Lawn Aeration: Aerate the lawn to help with drainage and prevent soil compaction.
- Winterizer Fertilizer: Fertilize the lawn with a winterizer fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for the colder months.
- Pre-Emergent Herbicide: Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent spring weeds from taking hold.
Plant Protection
- Cover Tender Plants: Protect tender plants from frost by covering them with frost blankets or bringing them indoors if possible.
- Prune Dead Branches: Prune any dead or diseased branches from trees and shrubs to promote healthy growth in the spring.
- Dormant Spray: Apply a dormant spray to trees and shrubs to protect them from pests and diseases over the winter.
- Mulching: Mulch around plants to help retain moisture, protect them from cold temperatures, and suppress weeds.
Lighting
- Holiday Lights: String up outdoor holiday lights to create a festive and welcoming atmosphere.
- Motion-Sensor Lights: Install motion-sensor lights around your property to deter pests and improve security.
- Check Outdoor Lighting: Check all outdoor lights for proper functioning and replace any bulbs that are burned out.
Additional Considerations:
- Pool Winterization: If you have a pool, make sure it is properly winterized according to your local climate.
- Fireplace Cleaning: If you have a fireplace, clean it thoroughly and check the chimney for any damage or blockages.
- Hot Tub Maintenance: If you have a hot tub, make sure it is properly drained and cleaned, and store any necessary accessories or chemicals.
- Barbecue Grill Storage: If you have a barbecue grill, clean it and store it in a protected area to prevent damage from harsh weather conditions.