Essential Fall Cleanup Tips for Vermont Homeowners

Written By Brian Kleiber

When the crisp autumn air rolls into Vermont and the leaves begin to fall, it’s the perfect time for homeowners to prepare their properties for the harsh winter ahead. Fall cleanup is more than just raking leaves, it’s part of a solid year-round property maintenance plan - it’s about protecting your landscaping, maintaining your home’s curb appeal, and setting yourself up for an easier spring.

Here’s a complete guide to fall cleanup in Vermont, with actionable steps every homeowner should follow.

1. Rake and Remove Leaves Regularly

A blanket of fall leaves may look picturesque, but leaving them on your lawn can smother grass, block sunlight, and lead to mold growth. In Vermont’s damp fall climate, this can also create slippery conditions and attract pests.

raking leaves in the fall

Tips:

  • Rake weekly or use a mulching mower to shred leaves into natural fertilizer.

  • Bag and compost leaves for use in next year’s garden.

  • Avoid burning leaves, which can release harmful toxins and is often restricted locally.

2. Clean Out Your Gutters

Clogged gutters are one of the most common issues Vermont homeowners face in the fall. When leaves, pine needles, and debris build up, they prevent proper drainage, leading to ice dams and water damage during winter.

What to do:

  • Clear all gutters and downspouts in late October or early November.

  • Consider installing gutter guards to reduce future buildup.

  • Check that downspouts direct water at least 5 feet away from your foundation.

3. Protect Your Lawn

Healthy lawns require extra care in the fall to survive Vermont’s cold, snowy winters.

Steps for success:

  • Aerate the soil to allow oxygen and nutrients to penetrate before the ground freezes.

  • Overseed bare patches to ensure a thick, resilient lawn in spring.

  • Fertilize in late fall with a slow-release nitrogen formula to strengthen roots.

4. Prune Trees and Shrubs

Heavy snow and ice can break weak branches, creating safety hazards and damaging your property.

Tips for pruning:

  • Remove dead, diseased, or overhanging branches near driveways and roofs.

  • Prune shrubs to maintain shape and encourage healthy spring growth.

  • Hire a professional for large or high branches.

5. Prepare Garden Beds

Taking care of garden beds in the fall helps ensure strong regrowth in spring.

pinnacle properties crew mulching and fertilizing a lawn

  • Pull out annuals and cut back perennials.

  • Add a 2–3 inch layer of mulch to insulate roots from freezing temperatures.

  • Plant spring bulbs (like tulips and daffodils) in October for a colorful start next year.

6. Store Outdoor Furniture and Tools

Vermont winters can be tough on outdoor items. Protect your investment by storing them properly.

  • Clean and cover patio furniture.

  • Drain and store garden hoses.

  • Winterize irrigation systems to prevent pipe damage.

  • Sharpen and store lawn equipment safely.

7. Seal Cracks and Gaps

Small cracks in walkways, driveways, and foundations can expand when water freezes and thaws.

  • Patch cracks in asphalt or concrete.

  • Check siding and windows for gaps where cold air or pests could enter.

  • Seal with caulk or weatherstripping as needed.

8. Compost and Reuse Organic Waste

Turn fall debris into nutrient-rich compost. Leaves, grass clippings, and garden waste make excellent organic matter that can be reused in your landscaping next year.

Final Thoughts

Fall cleanup in Vermont is more than just a seasonal chore - it’s an investment in your property’s long-term health and beauty. By tackling these tasks before the first snow, you’ll protect your landscaping, save on repair costs, and enjoy a smooth transition into spring.

Brian Kleiber
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When Should You Start Prepping for Fall?