Spring is here and it's a great time to start getting your property ready for summer!
It makes such a significant difference to our neighborhood when everyone keeps their yard looking great. Here are several spring-cleaning landscape chores that can help your property look its best.   

• Mow: Make sure your yards are mowed and edged regularly. Remove weeds and dead grass spots.
• Rake: Gently rake your lawn to remove dead grass, perk up the dormant blades, and give your lawn a boost. 
• Aerate: Over time, your lawn can become compacted, making it difficult for water and air to reach the roots of your grass for the lushest, greenest growth. Consider an aeration service to help loosen your lawn and encourage thicker, sturdier grass.
• Mulch: Landscapes look more finished with mulch. Mulch also helps control moisture, reduces water use, and regulates soil temperature for healthier gardens. Consider mulching bare areas or slopes where grass won’t grow.
• Fertilize: A spring fertilization treatment can give your grass a boost of nutrients for strong spring and summer growth. Wait to fertilize your lawn until it starts to show signs of life (new growth, turning green) so you avoid feeding seeds of weeds that will compete for space in your soil. 
• Prune Bushes and Trim Trees as needed.
• Limbs and Branches: Pick up any limbs or branches and dispose of them properly. Remember that the Town of Cary will pick up yard waste, weekly. Please do not place your yard debris on the common areas or near the trails. Don’t blow yard waste into storm drains, streams, or drainage areas. Yard debris can easily end up in drainage systems and our lakes, leading to very expensive dredging.

Here are some ideas for your checklist for your home:

• Gutters: Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to back up and damage your roof, walls, and foundation. Clean out all your gutters and downspouts by removing any debris, such as leaves, twigs, or other obstructions that may have built up during spring storms and pollen season.
• Windows: Washing windows and screens will give you a sparkling view of spring.
• Pressure Wash:  First, replace any damaged or missing siding, trim, shutters, or shingles, and fix damaged caulk and seals around windows and doors. Then, give your home’s exterior a thorough low pressure washing to remove dirt, grime, algae, mildew, and pollen.
• Mailboxes: Check your mailbox and post and make sure that they are scrubbed clean of mildew, and free of any vines that have grown up around your box and post. Check for rot, damage on the post, and straighten it. Make sure that your address numbers are visible for friends, mail carriers and emergency vehicles. If you decide to stain or replace your post, please check HERE for details on the approved color and replacement details.
• Fences: Check your fences and gates for needed repairs including leaning fence sections and gaps. Rake debris that may have gathered along the perimeter and clean your fences to remove mold and mildew.