Fall cleanup guide, eco-style

The chill in the air signals that it is time to get your garden and lawn ready for the winter months ahead, so why not do so in the most environmentally friendly way possible? Consider the following top three cleanup tips for fall, courtesy of The Home Depot Canada.

Fall and your lawn

It's actually more important to fertilize your lawn in the fall than it is in the spring because it dictates how strong the grass will be next year. This year try a 100% natural fertilizer and use a push or electric-powered mulching mower to help reduce the toxic air emissions produced by old two- and fourstroke gas mowers.

Garden cleanup

Leave plants in bloom alone along with anything with seeds for birds to munch on all winter. However, cut back anything that's looking mushy or dried-out and put this garden waste in the compost. Last but not least, clean all your garden equipment with fine steel wool and rub with vegetable oil to remove rust and dirt.

It's a wrap

Wrap new trees and evergreens if they need protection from wind or southern sun, especially in the first year. Drape fabric over them (light insulation cloth or burlap will do) and staple them to stakes placed a few feet away. Native plants don't need any special treatment for the winter.

More environmentally-friendly garden clean-up information is available online at www.homedepot.ca.

- News Canada