Well, the first significant snowfall has officially arrived in the Oswego and Yorkville area! While it looks beautiful, it’s also a stark reminder that winter is settling in. You might think it’s too late for any more yard prep, but there are a few critical, last-minute tasks you can still tackle—even with some snow on the ground—that will make opening up your yard next spring much easier.

Take advantage of the next clear afternoon to knock these items off your list. Your future self will thank you when the snow melts!

1. The Post-Snow Roof Check

Now that we’ve had our first snowfall, it’s the perfect time to take a look at your roof. Are you seeing any bare patches where the snow has melted? If so, these could be areas where your roof is poorly insulated and letting heat escape. This is a serious issue because melting snow can refreeze at your gutters, leading to ice dams that cause significant damage to your roof, gutters, and trim. Note these spots now so you can get any issues taken care of.

2. Drain Those Hoses!

Frosts are here, and they can cause serious damage to your garden hoses. While rubber hoses often fare better, PVC hoses can become brittle in the cold and burst. Take the time right now to disconnect and drain all your hoses to keep them in great condition for spring. It’s a quick task that saves you from buying new ones later.

3. Add a Final Layer of Protection

It’s not too late to give your plants a little extra security. If you have tender shrubs that are prone to winter damage, consider wrapping them in burlap to provide additional insulation and protection against the cold and wind. For your roses, you can still mulch them heavily, and even wrap the canes of tender varieties for extra protection. You should also add tree guards to help protect young trees from rabbits, deer, and other herbivores looking for a winter snack.

4. Indoor Prep: Tools & Equipment

On a day when it’s too cold to be outside, head to the garage. If you haven’t already, run your gas-powered tools dry or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the engine from glazing, which can lead to expensive repairs next spring. Finally, take a little time to clean, sharpen, and oil your tools before organizing them for the winter. You’ll love starting the new season with clean, sharp equipment!

Get these final tasks done, and you can rest easy knowing your yard is ready for its long winter nap. We’ll see you in the spring!