How to Prep Your Home and Garden for Each Season

Each season brings its own beauty—and its own to-do list. From freezing winters to blooming springs, prepping your home and garden before the weather shifts not only protects your investment but also keeps your space comfortable, functional, and looking its best year-round.

This seasonal guide breaks down the key tasks for both inside and outside your home so you can stay ahead of the weather, prevent costly repairs, and enjoy your space to the fullest.

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Spring: Clean, Refresh, and Plant

Spring is the season of renewal. It's time to clear away winter's mess and prepare your home and garden for warmer days ahead.

Home

• Deep clean windows, curtains, and upholstery
• Check for roof damage or leaks from winter storms
• Replace HVAC filters and schedule maintenance
• Switch out heavy bedding and drapes for lighter fabrics

Garden

• Prune shrubs and trees before new growth starts
• Clean and sharpen garden tools
• Prepare soil and add compost or organic fertilizer
• Plant early vegetables, herbs, and spring flowers like tulips or pansies

Tip: This is a great time to power wash patios, decks, and siding to remove mildew and grime.

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Summer: Maintain and Enjoy

Summer is the season for outdoor fun—but it also means staying on top of maintenance so your home and garden can handle the heat.

Home

• Inspect and clean ceiling fans and air conditioners
• Check seals on windows and doors to keep cool air in
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Set up pest control measures to keep ants and mosquitoes out

Garden

• Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Water early in the morning to prevent evaporation
• Harvest herbs and veggies regularly to promote growth
• Deadhead flowers to encourage more blooms

Bonus: Make your outdoor space entertaining-ready with string lights, cushions, and a DIY beverage station.

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Fall: Prepare and Protect

As the temperatures drop, it's time to wind down summer tasks and prep for the colder months ahead.

Home

• Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages
• Store or cover outdoor furniture
• Seal cracks in walls, windows, and foundations
• Schedule a chimney sweep if you use a fireplace

Garden

• Plant bulbs like daffodils and tulips for spring blooms
• Rake and compost fallen leaves
• Bring in potted plants that can't handle frost
• Cut back perennials and clean out garden beds

Pro Tip: Drain and store garden hoses and shut off outdoor water lines before the first freeze.

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Winter: Insulate and Monitor

Winter is all about protection. Your focus should be on insulation, indoor comfort, and staying alert for weather-related issues.

Home

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas to prevent freezing
• Reverse ceiling fans to push warm air down
• Keep emergency supplies like flashlights and batteries on hand
• Check attic insulation and seal drafts to reduce heating bills

Garden

• Protect shrubs with burlap wraps if needed
• Avoid walking on frozen grass to prevent damage
• Feed birds with seed stations for winter wildlife support
• Start planning next year's garden with seed catalogs and layout sketches

Winter is also the perfect time to tackle indoor projects you've been putting off—like reorganizing your pantry or refreshing your mudroom.

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Final Thoughts

With just a bit of planning each season, you can keep your home running smoothly and your garden thriving—no matter what Mother Nature throws your way. Staying in tune with the rhythm of the year ensures fewer surprises, lower repair bills, and more time spent enjoying the place you call home.

So grab your calendar, make a checklist, and start building your seasonal prep routine today—your future self will thank you.