Oklahoma Yard Cleanup Checklist for Spring and Fall

Spring and fall are the most important seasons for yard cleanup in Oklahoma. This comprehensive checklist helps homeowners prepare their yards for the growing season and winter dormancy.

Whether you live in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Edmond, Norman, Moore, Broken Arrow, or surrounding areas, following a structured cleanup plan keeps your yard healthy and looking great year-round.

Spring Yard Cleanup Checklist

Spring cleanup sets the foundation for a healthy growing season.

1. Remove Winter Debris

Start by clearing away winter's leftovers:

• Rake up dead leaves from fall and winter
• Remove broken branches and twigs
• Clear storm debris from winter storms
• Pick up trash and debris blown in by wind
• Remove dead annuals and perennials

2. Inspect and Trim Trees and Shrubs

Early spring is ideal for pruning:

• Remove dead or damaged branches
• Trim overgrown shrubs
• Shape hedges and bushes
• Inspect trees for disease or damage
• Remove branches that could fall during storms

3. Prepare Lawn for Growing Season

Get your grass ready for active growth:

• Rake out dead grass and thatch
• First mowing of the season
• Edge along sidewalks and driveways
• Overseed thin or bare areas
• Apply pre-emergent weed control
• Fertilize if needed

4. Clean and Refresh Mulch

Refresh your landscaping beds:

• Remove old, matted mulch
• Add fresh mulch to flowerbeds
• Edge around beds for clean lines
• Remove weeds from mulched areas

5. Check Irrigation Systems

Ensure your watering system is ready:

• Test all sprinkler heads
• Check for leaks or broken components
• Adjust timers for spring weather
• Clear debris from sprinkler heads
• Inspect drip irrigation lines

6. Clean Up Flowerbeds

Prepare beds for new growth:

• Remove dead plant material
• Loosen compacted soil
• Add compost or fertilizer
• Plan and plant new annuals
• Divide and replant perennials if needed

7. Address Storm Damage

After spring storms:

• Remove fallen branches
• Clean up debris
• Repair any damage to structures
• Level areas where soil washed away

Fall Yard Cleanup Checklist

Fall cleanup prepares your yard for winter and makes spring easier.

1. Leaf Removal

Oklahoma's hardwood trees drop heavy leaf loads:

• Rake or blow leaves regularly
• Remove leaves from lawn to prevent suffocation
• Clear leaves from gutters and drains
• Compost leaves or dispose properly
• Continue leaf removal until trees are bare

2. Final Lawn Care

Prepare grass for winter dormancy:

• Final mowing of the season
• Cut grass slightly shorter for winter
• Overseed fescue if needed
• Apply fall fertilizer
• Aerate if soil is compacted

3. Trim and Prune

Fall is a good time for light pruning:

• Trim shrubs and hedges
• Remove dead branches
• Shape overgrown plants
• Avoid heavy pruning that could stress plants

4. Clean Up Annuals and Perennials

Prepare plants for winter:

• Remove dead annuals
• Cut back perennials after first frost
• Divide and replant if needed
• Mulch around tender perennials

5. Winterize Irrigation

Protect your watering system:

• Drain irrigation lines
• Turn off automatic timers
• Cover exposed pipes
• Store hoses and sprinklers

6. Clear Debris and Prepare for Storms

Before winter weather:

• Remove all debris from yard
• Secure outdoor furniture
• Store garden tools
• Check drainage areas

7. Mulch Refresh

Add fresh mulch for winter protection:

• Refresh mulch in flowerbeds
• Add extra mulch around tender plants
• Ensure proper coverage

Why Seasonal Cleanup Matters

Regular cleanup provides several benefits:

• Prevents weed growth and spread
• Reduces pest problems
• Maintains healthy grass and plants
• Improves curb appeal
• Prevents larger problems later
• Keeps your yard HOA-compliant

Professional Cleanup Services

Professional yard cleanup services can handle:

• Complete seasonal cleanups
• Heavy debris removal
• Tree and shrub trimming
• Leaf removal and disposal
• Mulch installation
• Storm damage cleanup

Get Professional Yard Cleanup in Oklahoma

If you need help with spring or fall cleanup, Yard Maintenance can connect you with local professionals who understand Oklahoma's seasonal needs and can restore your yard efficiently.