Yard work never ends here, but it doesn’t have to overwhelm you. This seasonal calendar spells out the timing for all the popular landscaping projects in Rochester.

Spring

• Lawn Care: Mowing resumes in late April or early May when the grass is actively growing.
• Mulch: Freshen up your landscaping beds during the spring.
• Planting: If the snow is gone and the ground has thawed, you can plant in mid-March. However, to be safe, wait until the air temperature is consistently above 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Shrub Pruning: Prune in early spring to promote new growth
• Irrigation: Turn on your sprinkler systems in mid or early June.
• Hardscaping: Begin installing patios, walkways, and other hardscapes after Mother’s Day when the weather is milder.
• Landscape Lighting: You can install your lighting once the last frost has passed and the ground is soft.
• Fencing: For a smoother fence installation and less wear and tear on the tools (post-hole diggers and two-person augers), ensure the air is at 50 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer.

Summer

• Lawn Care: Consistent mowing keeps your grass healthy. Also, water, following Rochester’s watering guidelines.
• Irrigation: This is a great time to install a sprinkler system and/or a drip hose for your gardens and trees.
• Landscape Lighting: Inspect lighting fixtures for cracked lenses and damaged wiring.
• Fencing: The soil temperature during summer is perfect for installing that new fence. Also, make repairs and/or paint/stain any existing wood fences.

Fall

• Lawn Care: The mowing season wraps up at the end of October or early November.
• Leaf Cleanup: Rake and bag leaves, or hire a local leaf removal crew.
• Mulch: Mulch helps insulate the plant's roots for winter.
• Planting: A good time to plant trees is September. Cut back perennials and plant bulbs now so they bloom in the spring.
• Irrigation: Blow out and winterize your system before October ushers in freezing weather.
• Hardscaping: Wrap up hardscaping projects before the first frost hits.
• Landscape Lighting: Add until late September or before the ground freezes.
• Fencing: You can install, repair, or paint and stain until late September.

Winter

• Hardscaping: Start planning a new patio design or more extensive projects, including sitting walls, a fire pit, and an outdoor kitchen, for spring installation.
• Shrub Pruning: Late winter or early spring.

Whether you need routine lawn care, landscaping help, or simple yard cleanup, LawnStarter’s Rochester landscaping pros have you covered with expert service at prices you’ll love.