Fall hits Grants Pass differently than most places. One day it's sunny and 80, the next it's pouring rain and your yard looks like a leaf storm rolled through.
At Zehe Scapes, we've seen this in almost every neighborhood — from Redwood Highway to Hillcrest Drive — the weather changes fast, and yards can go from neat to messy overnight.
Doing a proper fall cleanup isn't just about looks. It's what protects your grass, plants, and irrigation system before the colder months arrive.
Why Fall Cleanup Matters in Southern Oregon
Skipping fall cleanup can lead to:
- Lawn damage: Leaves left on grass block sunlight and trap moisture, leading to disease and dead spots
- Pest problems: Debris piles become winter homes for insects and rodents
- Irrigation issues: Systems not properly winterized can freeze and crack
- Spring headaches: Problems ignored in fall become bigger (and more expensive) in spring
Essential Fall Cleanup Tasks
1. Stay on Top of Leaves
In Grants Pass, leaf fall can happen all at once or drag out for weeks depending on the weather. The key is not letting leaves pile up:
- Rake or blow leaves weekly during peak fall
- Mulch light leaf cover with your mower
- Remove heavy accumulations from lawn and beds
- Keep leaves out of gutters and drainage areas
2. Final Mowing and Lawn Prep
Before your lawn goes dormant:
- Gradually lower mowing height for the last few cuts
- Final mow should leave grass at about 2-2.5 inches
- This height reduces disease risk without stressing the grass
3. Clean and Mulch Garden Beds
- Remove dead annuals and spent vegetables
- Cut back perennials (but leave some for winter interest and wildlife)
- Add 2-3 inches of fresh mulch to protect roots and suppress spring weeds
- Pull any remaining weeds before they go to seed
4. Aerate and Overseed (If Needed)
Fall is actually the best time for lawn aeration and overseeding in the Rogue Valley:
- Aeration relieves soil compaction
- Overseeding fills in thin or bare spots
- Cool fall temps and rain help new grass establish
5. Winterize Irrigation
Before the first hard freeze:
- Drain and blow out irrigation lines
- Insulate backflow preventers
- Disconnect and store hoses
- Shut off outdoor water supply if possible
6. Clear Gutters and Drainage
Clogged gutters cause water damage. Make sure:
- All leaves and debris are removed from gutters
- Downspouts are clear and directing water away from the foundation
- Drainage areas in the yard are free of blockages
7. Final Property Walk-Through
Take a walk around your property and note:
- Any fence repairs needed
- Damaged hardscaping
- Plants that need protection or relocation
- Areas that hold standing water
Addressing these now saves headaches later.
Let Zehe Scapes Handle Your Fall Cleanup
Don't have time for fall cleanup? We get it — life is busy.
Zehe Scapes offers complete fall cleanup services throughout Grants Pass, Medford, Rogue River, Cave Junction, Merlin, and all of Southern Oregon. We handle leaves, bed cleanup, final mowing, gutter cleaning, and winterization so your property is protected all winter long.
Licensed (CCB #258789) | Insured | Owner-Operated