Fall cleanup in Minnesota comes down to timing. Start too early and more leaves will come down after you finish. Wait too long and snow can trap leaves and debris on your lawn and beds all winter.
The best window
For most Minnesota yards, the best time for fall cleanup is after most trees have dropped their leaves, usually late October into mid-November, and before the ground freezes and permanent snow cover arrives. If you have a mix of trees, plan for two passes: one in the middle of leaf drop and one final cleanup after the last leaves fall.
What to do
- Remove leaves from the lawn. A thick layer of leaves blocks light and traps moisture, which can lead to dead patches and snow mold in spring. A thin layer can be mulched into the lawn with a mower, but heavy leaf cover should be removed.
- Clear leaves out of garden beds. Leaves matted down in beds can smother plants. Leave a light layer where you want natural mulch.
- Cut back perennials. Many perennials can be cut back after the first hard frost. Some people leave seed heads for birds, and ornamental grasses can wait until late winter.
- Pick up sticks and branches. Clear debris now so it does not become a hazard for mowing or plowing.
- Make a final mow. Keep mowing until the grass stops growing, and lower the height gradually for the last couple of cuts.
What can wait
Most shrub pruning is better done in late winter or early spring, while plants are dormant. Spring-blooming shrubs should be pruned after they flower.
Let us handle it
All Star Outdoor Services provides fall cleanup in Northfield, Faribault, Dundas, Lonsdale, Morristown and Waterford. Request a free estimate on our website and we will get it done before the snow flies.