What to Include in a Seasonal Garden Tidy-Up

A seasonal tidy-up is simply a good going-over of the garden at the right time of year. It gets on top of the jobs that have built up and makes the garden easier to look after for the next few months.

Here’s what’s usually worth including, season by season.

The basics, whatever the season

• Grass — cut and edge the lawn so it looks neat.
• Weeding — clear beds, borders, paths and gravel.
• Hedges and shrubs — trim back anything blocking paths, windows or light.
• Clearing — remove fallen branches, leaves and general debris.
• Hard surfaces — sweep paths and patios.
• A quick check — look over fences, gates and slabs for anything that needs repairing.

Spring tidy-up

Spring is about clearing away winter mess and getting ready for the growing season.

• Clear leaves and storm debris left over from winter
• Weed borders before the weeds get established
• Give the lawn its first cuts of the year on a high setting
• Check fences and slabs for winter damage
• Clean patios and paths that have turned green over winter

Summer tidy-up

In summer, the aim is to keep on top of growth so the garden stays usable.

• Regular grass cutting while the lawn is growing fastest
• Keep weeds down in beds and gravel
• Trim hedges — checking first for nesting birds, as active nests are protected by law
• Freshen up fences and woodwork with paint or stain in dry spells

Autumn tidy-up

Autumn is about getting the garden ready for winter.

• Clear fallen leaves from the lawn, paths and patio
• Final cut of the lawn on a higher setting
• Cut back plants that have collapsed, leaving some seed heads for wildlife
• Fix loose fence panels before winter storms

Our winter preparation guide goes into more detail.

Things to think about before you start

• Waste — a big tidy-up can create a lot of garden waste. Think about how it will be removed or composted.
• Access — can tools and waste get in and out easily, or is everything through the house?
• Priorities — if time or budget is limited, decide which areas matter most.

Let us take care of it

Our garden tidy-up service covers grass, weeding, hedges and general clearing in one visit for homes in Lesmahagow and the surrounding area. Tell us what you’d like done and we’ll send a free, no-pressure quote.