Fall Yard and Lawn Care in Colorado: What to Do Before Winter

By David Parks · eXp Realty · The Apollo Group · 2 min read

The Short Answer

Fall is the best time to feed the lawn, aerate, and protect plants for winter. Colorado’s dry climate means you also need to water trees and shrubs through the cold months.

Fall Yard and Lawn Care in Colorado: What to Do Before Winter
Stock photo: Pexels

Lawn

Aerate compacted soil, overseed thin spots, and apply a fall fertilizer. Keep mowing until growth stops, and rake or mulch leaves so they do not smother the grass.

Fallen autumn leaves
Stock photo: Pexels

Trees and shrubs

Water evergreens and young trees before the ground freezes and occasionally on warm winter days. Colorado winters are dry, and plants can suffer without moisture. Wrap thin-barked young trees to protect from sun scald.

Quick Poll

Have you done this seasonal home check yet?

Irrigation

Schedule your sprinkler blowout in October. Drain hoses and store them, and shut off outdoor faucets if your home has interior shutoffs.

Garden beds

Cut back perennials, plant spring bulbs, and add mulch to protect roots. Remove diseased plant material.

Curb appeal for resale

A tidy yard, fresh mulch, and trimmed shrubs make a strong first impression for fall showings, and set you up for an easier spring.

Key Takeaways
  • Lawn: Aerate compacted soil, overseed thin spots, and apply a fall fertilizer.
  • Trees and shrubs: Water evergreens and young trees before the ground freezes and occasionally on warm winter days.
  • Irrigation: Schedule your sprinkler blowout in October.
  • Garden beds: Cut back perennials, plant spring bulbs, and add mulch to protect roots.

This article is general information, not legal, tax, financial or inspection advice. Every home and situation is different, so confirm details with a licensed inspector, lender, attorney or tax professional.

David Parks
About David Parks

David is a Greater Denver real estate advisor with eXp Realty and The Apollo Group (Colorado broker license FA100103211). He has closed more than $55 million in volume, earned eXp Icon status in 2025, and holds a 5.0 rating on Zillow from 27 verified reviews.

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