The first week of January always brings out an almost obsessive need to clean and organize my surroundings in preparation for the new year ahead. I usually attack the closets first and then move into the basement and garage storage in a frenzied attempt to achieve organizational nirvana. It drives my poor husband crazy because the “little help” I request from him usually turns into hours of unanticipated and unwelcome work as well as some unexpected expense.
This year has been a challenge for me. The temperatures here have been so frigid that the garage is too cold for me to accomplish any productive work and we don’t have a basement in this house. Since I couldn’t finish my physical tasks, I did the next best thing. I made a cup of hot chocolate, grabbed a pencil and notebook, and started a list of outdoor tasks that I’d like to have completed before the spring growing season.
- Do a Safety Check
Properly installed and positioned night lighting not only promotes safety, but also creates an inviting atmosphere.
-
- Are walkways and patios clear of tripping hazards? Is there settling anywhere? Do pavers need to be reset?
- Are railings firmly anchored?
- Do trees or shrubs obscure windows and doors? Do they create blind spots where someone could hide?
- Is night lighting adequate? Does it throw unwanted shadows? Do bulbs need to be replaced?
- Is traffic flow visible? Are driveways or street corners blocked by overgrown or poorly placed plants?
- Examine the Trees
Winter is an excellent time to study the shape of deciduous trees.
-
- Is there evidence of insect damage or disease?
- Are animals eating the bark?
- Would careful pruning improve the overall appearance?
- Will they interfere with power lines?
- Are they too close to the house?
- Complete a Site Survey
Trees can help reduce energy costs up to 30%.
-
- Do shrubs need to be replaced? Are they overgrown?
- Which beds need to be redesigned?
- Are there drainage issues?
- Is there a view that needs to be enhanced?
- Is there a view that needs to be hidden?
- Will energy costs be reduced by adding deciduous or evergreen trees?
Having a list of specific tasks in hand gives a sense of direction for the coming year. It’s easy to see which ones are easily done by a homeowner and which ones are best handled by a professional landscape company. Embassy’s staff is anxious to help you get ready for 2024. Give them a call today.
