When the heat eases in North Myrtle Beach and shadows stretch a little longer, the yard asks for a different kind of care. Fall isn’t just about raking leaves or overseeding the lawn—it’s the season for tuning the whole landscape so it rests well and wakes up strong next spring. Here’s how to think about your property once the calendar tips into autumn.
Refresh Mulch for Root Protection
As temperatures cool, mulch becomes a blanket. A 2–3 inch layer around shrubs and flower beds keeps roots warmer on chilly nights and steadier through temperature swings. In coastal areas, it also shields soil from heavy rain, holding moisture without turning soggy.
Prune with Purpose
Fall is perfect for structural pruning of many shrubs and small trees. Clearing dead, diseased, or crossing branches helps ornamentals breathe and lowers the risk of fungal spread when winter moisture arrives. Save spring bloomers for after their flowers fade, but give evergreen shrubs a light shape-up now.
Plant for Next Year’s Show
Autumn soil in the Carolinas stays warm even after the air cools, which means roots establish quickly. It’s prime time to add ornamental trees, hardy shrubs, and perennials. Fall planting reduces transplant stress and rewards you with stronger growth once spring returns.
Tidy Beds and Edges
Leaves left piled in beds can trap moisture, invite pests, and smother perennials. Clear them away, redefine your bed edges, and top with mulch for a crisp, finished look. It’s an instant curb appeal upgrade that also protects the plants.
Prep Irrigation and Drainage
As rainfall increases, check that gutters, swales, and drains guide water away from foundations and beds. Adjust irrigation schedules downward—your turf and ornamentals need less water in fall, but consistent deep watering during dry spells still matters.
Fertilize the Roots, Not the Leaves
Cool-season fertilization focuses on root health. Choose blends with higher potassium to strengthen turf and ornamentals for winter resilience. Avoid heavy nitrogen that pushes soft leaf growth vulnerable to cold snaps.
Why It Matters
Fall work is an investment. When you prune, mulch, plant, and feed at the right time, you’re not just cleaning up—you’re setting the stage for stronger growth, brighter blooms, and fewer problems in the spring.
Partner with KeckCo This Fall
Whether you need pruning, planting, mulching, or seasonal maintenance, KeckCo Turf & Ornamental Services has the tools and local expertise to prepare your yard for the months ahead. Call 843-273-0735 or visit keckcoturf.com to schedule your fall service.
