Landscape Design | Fallas Landscape LTD | Lawn Care and Maintenance

Tag: winter trimming

Post-Snow Landscape Care in North Texas.

Snow in North Texas might be rare, but when it arrives, it can leave your landscape needing some extra attention. While our subtropical climate doesn’t prepare our plants and lawns for winter weather the way northern landscapes are conditioned, a few strategic steps after a snow event can protect your investment and ensure your yard bounces back beautifully.

Wait Before You Walk

The first rule after snow in North Texas is patience. Resist the urge to walk across your lawn while snow is still present or immediately after it melts. Frozen grass blades are brittle and can easily break under foot traffic, and compacted, saturated soil can suffer long-term damage. Give your turf at least a day or two to recover before resuming normal use.

Assess Plant Damage Carefully

Once the snow has melted, take a walk through your landscape to evaluate any damage. Look for broken branches, torn leaves, or plants that appear flattened. However, don’t rush to prune or remove plants that look damaged. Many North Texas plants that appear dead or severely damaged after snow are simply dormant or stressed and will recover once temperatures warm up.
For trees and shrubs with broken branches, you can carefully remove any that are clearly snapped or hanging dangerously. Make clean cuts just above a healthy bud or branch junction. For everything else, the best approach is to wait until spring when you can better assess what has truly died back versus what will regenerate.

Address Standing Water

North Texas clay soil doesn’t drain quickly, and melting snow can leave puddles and soggy areas in your yard. Standing water can suffocate grass roots and create conditions for fungal diseases. If you notice persistent standing water, consider these solutions:
• Gently aerate affected areas once the soil is workable (not too wet)
• Add a thin layer of compost to improve soil structure over time
• For recurring problem areas, consult with a landscape professional about drainage solutions

Hold Off on Fertilizing

After a snow event, your lawn and plants need recovery time, not a feeding. Fertilizing too early, especially when plants are still stressed or soil temperatures are too cold, can do more harm than good. Wait until consistent spring temperatures arrive and your grass shows active green growth before applying any fertilizers. For North Texas, this typically means waiting until late March or early April.

Check Your Irrigation System

Snow and freezing temperatures can damage exposed irrigation components. Once the weather has stabilized, run a manual check of your irrigation system. Look for cracked pipes, broken sprinkler heads, or leaks. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to avoid water waste and ensure your system is ready for the growing season ahead.

Protect Tropical and Tender Plants

If you have tropical plants like hibiscus, bougainvillea, or citrus trees, they may have suffered cold damage even with snow cover. Don’t remove what looks like dead growth right away. These plants often regenerate from their roots or lower stems. Keep the damaged foliage in place as it provides some protection if another cold snap arrives. You can trim away the dead material in late spring once new growth clearly indicates where the plant is viable.

Refresh Your Mulch

Snow can displace mulch in your beds, and the freeze-thaw cycle may have broken it down more quickly. Once the soil has dried out a bit, check your mulched areas and add where needed. A fresh 2-inch layer of mulch helps to hold moisture, prevents weeds, and regulates soil temperature as spring approaches.

Plan for Prevention

While snow in North Texas is unpredictable, you can take steps to minimize future damage. Consider planting more cold-hardy varieties, ensuring proper drainage throughout your landscape, and keeping trees and shrubs properly pruned to reduce the weight of snow accumulation on branches.

When to Call in the Professionals

Some post-snow situations warrant professional help. If you have large trees with significant damage, complex drainage issues, or you’re unsure about the health of valuable specimen plants, consulting with a landscape professional can save you time, money, and heartache in the long run.
Your North Texas landscape is resilient, and with a little patience and proper care after snow, it will return to its vibrant self. The key is not to overreact but to provide gentle support as your plants and lawn naturally recover from the unusual weather event.

Need help assessing or repairing your landscape after winter weather? Contact Fallas Landscape for expert guidance tailored to North Texas conditions.

January 31, 2026
Easy Winter Lawn and Landscape Maintenance Tips for a Vibrant North Texas Spring
As the new year is here in North Texas, many homeowners think winter is a time to ignore the yard until warmer days return. But at Fallas Landscape, we know the truth: what you do (or don’t do) during these cooler months directly impacts how lush and healthy your lawn and landscape will look when spring arrives. North Texas winters are typically mild, with occasional hard freezes and dry spells that can stress dormant grasses and plants. The good news? A few simple, low-effort maintenance tasks now can set your yard up for a vibrant, weed-free comeback in March and April.

Proper winter care strengthens root systems, prevents common issues like winter weeds or freeze damage, and reduces the work you’ll face in spring. Whether you have Bermuda, St. Augustine, or a mix of landscape beds, these easy tips will help you maintain a healthy foundation without spending every weekend outdoors.
1. Water Wisely During Dry Spells
Even in winter, North Texas can go weeks without meaningful rain, and dormant grass still needs moisture to develop deep roots. The key is deep, infrequent watering rather than frequent light sprinkles.

Aim to water every 2-3 weeks if we haven’t had at least an inch of rain. Focus on mornings to allow grass blades to dry before evening temperatures drop. A crucial tip: water deeply the day before a forecasted hard freeze. Moist soil insulates roots better than dry soil, reducing the risk of freeze damage.

For established lawns, about ½ to 1 inch of water per session is plenty. Use a tuna can or rain gauge to measure output from your sprinklers. This simple habit pays off big in spring with thicker, greener turf.
1. Adjust Your Mowing Routine
Your warm-season grass may go dormant and turn brown, but it doesn’t stop growing roots underground. Keep mowing as needed through early winter, but make adjustments for colder weather.

Set your mower blade higher than in summer—around 3-3.5 inches for Bermuda or 2.5-3 inches for St. Augustine. Taller blades shade the soil, retain moisture, and help prevent weed germination. Mow less frequently, only when grass reaches about one-third above your target height.

For your final mow before consistent freezes, you can lower the blade slightly to reduce matting and disease risk. Always use a sharp blade to avoid tearing grass, which can invite problems. Minimal mowing now means less thinning and faster green-up in spring.
1. Tackle Winter Weeds Early
Winter weeds like henbit, rescuegrass, and annual bluegrass love to sprout during mild North Texas winters. The easiest way to control them is prevention with a pre-emergent herbicide applied in late fall or early winter.

If you missed the fall window, a second application in January can still help. Choose a product labeled for your grass type and follow instructions carefully. Combine this with maintaining proper mowing height and watering to create conditions where weeds struggle to establish.

Hand-pulling small patches is another low-effort option for landscape beds. Getting ahead of weeds now means far fewer headaches when spring growth explodes.
1. Clean Up Debris and Refresh Mulch
Fallen leaves, twigs, and debris can mat down on dormant grass, trapping moisture and encouraging fungal diseases. Rake or mulch leaves with your mower a few times through winter to keep the lawn clear.

In landscape beds, add or refresh a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around trees, shrubs, and perennials. Mulch insulates roots from temperature swings, retains soil moisture, and suppresses weeds. Hardwood mulch or native Texas varieties work well and break down to improve soil over time.

This simple step also gives your yard a tidy appearance through the bare winter months and protects tender plants from occasional deep freezes.
1. Protect Plants and Irrigation Systems
North Texas freezes can damage tender tropicals, young trees, and plumbing. Cover sensitive plants with frost cloth or blankets on nights below 32°F, and uncover them during the day to allow light and air circulation.

For established shrubs and perennials, mulch provides good protection. Wrap young tree trunks with guards to prevent sunscald and frost cracks.

Don’t forget your irrigation system. If temperatures will dip into the 20s for several hours, consider professional winterization—draining lines and shutting off the controller—to prevent burst pipes. At Fallas Landscape, we often help clients with this quick service to avoid costly repairs.
1. Prune Selectively and Plan Ahead
Late winter (February) is ideal for pruning many deciduous trees and summer-blooming shrubs while they’re dormant. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve structure and airflow.

Avoid heavy pruning on spring-blooming plants like azaleas or Texas mountain laurel until after they flower. Hold off on pruning oaks until after the risk of oak wilt transmission decreases in midsummer.

Use this quieter season to assess your landscape. Note areas that need new plants, improved drainage, or refreshed design. Planning now means you’ll be ready to install when soil warms in spring.

Enjoy a Stronger, Greener Spring

These straightforward winter maintenance tasks—watering wisely, smart mowing, weed prevention, cleanup, protection, and selective pruning—require minimal time but deliver maximum results. Your lawn and landscape will emerge stronger, with deeper roots, fewer weeds, and better overall health for the growing season ahead.

At Fallas Landscape, we’ve helped countless North Texas homeowners maintain beautiful yards year-round. If you’d prefer to leave the winter prep to professionals or want guidance tailored to your property, contact us today for a consultation. Here’s to a vibrant spring ahead!
December 31, 2025
7 Simple Ways to Get Your Yard Ready for 2025

Hey there! Now that the holiday decorations are coming down, let’s talk about getting your yard in shape for the new year. Don’t worry – these tasks are easier than your New Year’s resolutions, and they’ll set your landscape up for success in 2025.

1. Give Your Trees and Shrubs a Haircut
Think of January as spa month for your trees and shrubs. They’re sleeping right now, which makes it the perfect time for a trim. Just grab your pruners and look for any dead branches or ones that are crossing over each other. But hold off on trimming those spring-flowering bushes like azaleas – they’ve already got their flower buds ready to go, and you don’t want to accidentally snip off this year’s show!

2. Show Your Tools Some Love
You know how you deep-clean your house after the holidays? Your garden tools need the same TLC. Wipe them down, sharpen anything that’s dull, and give them a light coat of oil to prevent rust. Trust me, your future self will thank you when spring rolls around and everything’s ready to go.

3. Dream Big and Plan Ahead
While it’s cold outside, curl up with a cup of hot cocoa and start planning what you want your yard to look like this year. Order your seeds and plants now when prices are better and everything’s still in stock. Think about what worked great last year and what plants threw a temper tantrum in your yard – maybe it’s time to try some tough, local plants that can handle your weather without constant babysitting.

4. Tuck Your Plants in for Winter
Your plants need a cozy blanket just like you do! Spread some fresh mulch around your trees and flower beds – about 2-3 inches deep should do it. Just keep it away from the trunks and stems (think turtleneck, not scarf). This helps keep the soil temperature steady and protects those precious roots.

5. Check Your Soil’s Health
Think of this as a check-up for your yard. Grab a soil test kit from your local garden center or extension office. Is your soil too acidic or basic? Now’s the time to fix it with some lime or sulfur. Adding compost is always a good idea too – it’s like a multivitamin for your soil.

6. Fix Those Soggy Spots
You know that annoying puddle that forms every time it rains? Winter is the perfect time to tackle drainage issues. Keep an eye on where water collects after storms. You might need to add a drain or create a rain garden. It’s way easier to fix these problems now than to deal with dead plants in the spring.

7. Give Your Hardscaping a Once-Over
Take a walk around your yard and check out your patios, walkways, and retaining walls. Look for any wobbly stones or damaged areas. Clean off any ice-melting chemicals you might have used – they can be rough on your plants and hardscaping if they stick around too long.

Here’s a pro tip: spread these jobs out over January and February, and only work when the weather’s decent. There’s no need to freeze your fingers off! And if you’re not sure about something (especially when it comes to big trees), don’t be shy about calling in a professional.

Remember, you don’t have to tackle everything at once. Even checking off just a few of these tasks will put you ahead of the game. Your yard will bounce back better than ever when spring arrives, and you’ll be ready to enjoy it instead of playing catch-up.

The best part? While everyone else is rushing around in spring trying to get their yards in shape, you’ll be sitting back and watching your landscape thrive. Now that’s a great way to start the new year!

If you have any questions contact us at Fallas Landscape.

December 31, 2024
Reviving Your Yard: Tips for a Post-Winter Landscape Makeover
Winter can be harsh on the most carefully tended yards, leaving behind signs of damage that can seem overwhelming to any homeowner. From frost-killed plants to worn-out soil, the aftermath of winter requires a strategic approach to get your landscape back in shape for the radiant seasons ahead. As we transition into warmer weather, it’s the perfect time to plan a transformative garden revival. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the steps necessary to breathe new life into your outdoor space, creating an oasis of beauty and health.

With the insights shared here, you can not only rejuvenate your green haven but also learn to appreciate the changing needs of your yard throughout the seasons effectively. This is not just a routine makeover; it is a holistic reinvigoration that will add character and charm to your abode, contributing to both curb appeal and your personal enjoyment.

The Importance of Revitalizing Your Yard After Winter

Before getting into the nitty-gritty of post-winter yard care, it’s important to recognize the value of this annual refresh. Revitalizing your yard is not just about aesthetics; it’s about ensuring the longevity and vitality of your plants. Addressing winter damage promptly sets the stage for healthy growth, which in turn, minimizes the risk of future disease and distress. This resurgence also has psychological benefits, presenting an opportunity for homeowners to connect with nature and engage in a restorative activity.

Assessing the Damage

A delicate evaluation of your yard’s condition after winter is the first step toward an effective recovery plan. Factors such as extreme cold, fluctuating temperatures, snow, and ice can have various detrimental effects on your plants, trees, and lawn, ranging from desiccation to physical breakage.

Identifying Winter Damage to Plants, Trees, and Lawn
- Look for signs of frost damage on leaves and stems, such as browning and wilting.
- Check for broken branches or limbs due to the weight of snow or ice.
- Evaluate the lawn for compaction and thatch build-up.
- Assess tree trunks for signs of sunscald or rodent damage.
- Observe soil for erosion and drainage concerns.
- Preparing the Soil
Healthy plants start with the soil. A thorough assessment and preparation of the soil are crucial to providing a solid foundation for your landscape to thrive.
- Clearing Debris and Improving Soil Quality
- Begin by removing debris, fallen leaves, and any detritus that may have accumulated over the winter.
- Conduct a soil test to determine nutrient deficiencies and pH levels.
- Consider organic amendments like compost or aged manure to enrich the soil.
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and protect against temperature fluctuations.
- Trimming and Pruning
Winter pruning is all about regaining structure and controlling the direction of plant growth. By addressing damaged limbs and controlling size, you set the stage for healthier, more productive plants.

Pruning Damaged Branches and Shaping Plants
- Use sharp, clean tools to make precise cuts that promote rapid healing.
- Cut back dead or damaged branches down to the healthy tissue.
- Shape shrubs and trees, aiming for a pleasing and functional form.
- Avoid trimming spring-blooming plants until after they have flowered.
Choosing New Plants

Part of your landscape makeover may involve selecting and introducing new plantings that complement your yard’s existing character and your region’s climate.
- Selecting Plants Suitable for Your Climate and Yard
- Research local nurseries for native or well-adapted plant species.
- Choose plants that offer the desired color, height, and seasonal interest.
- Consider the watering and light requirements of each plant in your selection.
- Plan for a varied mix of perennials, annuals, shrubs, and trees for a multi-layered landscape.
Lawn Care

Your lawn, a central feature of many yards, also deserves attention to recover from winter stress and prepare for summer dormancy.
- Rejuvenating the Lawn with Aeration, Fertilization, and Overseeding
- Core aerate the lawn to reduce compaction and improve water and nutrient movement.
- Fertilize with a balanced formula to support spring green-up.
- Overseed thin areas to encourage a thicker, more resilient turf.
- Monitor for consistent moisture and adjust watering as necessary.
Adding Color and Texture

A blend of color and texture is what turns a yard into a garden. Be purposeful in your selection to achieve a pleasing and sustainable design.
- Incorporating Flowers, Shrubs, and Ground Cover for Visual Appeal
- Introduce a mix of perennials and annuals to add pops of color and seasonal interest.
- Use flowering shrubs to create anchor points and fill the mid-level of your landscape.
- Select ground covers to control erosion and suppress weeds in problem areas.
- Plan for a variety of bloom times to maintain a dynamic and ever-changing display.
Hardscaping and Outdoor Features

Landscape features such as pathways, patios, and water elements contribute structure and ambiance to your outdoor space.
- Enhancing the Yard with Pathways, Seating Areas, and Water Features
- Lay out paths that promote movement and reveal your garden’s beauty.
- Create comfortable seating areas to enjoy nature and the fruits of your labor.
- Add a water feature, like a pond or fountain, to inject a tranquil element that attracts wildlife.
- Complement your design with lighting for safety and evening enjoyment.
Maintenance and Upkeep

To keep the momentum of your landscape makeover, regular maintenance is key. Create a schedule that incorporates essential tasks to ensure the beauty of your yard endures.

Tips for Ongoing Care and Maintenance
- Develop a routine for watering, feeding, and mulching plants.
- Monitor for pests and diseases, addressing issues promptly to prevent them from spreading.
- Plan and execute regular lawn mowing, aeration, and seasonal dethatching and weed control.
- Keep an eye on the yard’s appearance and address any areas that require your attention.
The effort and attention you put into reviving your yard after winter are more than just chores; they are investments in your home, your well-being, and the natural world around you. As your landscape transforms under your care, you’ll experience the gratification of nurturing growth and creating a space that reflects your vision and personality. Though the process requires dedication, the joy of a bountiful and beautiful yard is unparalleled.

Remember, your yard is a living canvas that will continue to evolve throughout the year. Embrace each season’s unique demands and delights, adapting your care accordingly. Stay connected with local gardening communities and resources to discover new techniques and trends that can further enhance your outdoor sanctuary.

With these guidelines and a dash of your personal touch, you’re well on your way to a post-winter yard that not only thrives in the sunshine but also sets the stage for an unforgettable outdoor experience every season.

For more information visit Fallas Landscape.
January 31, 2024
Is Winter The Best Time To Trim Trees & Shrubs?

The most important factor in trimming plants is to know when you should do it. Keeping your plants healthy is a concern of all plant owners. So, researching when the best time to prune is very common. If you have shrubs and trees in your yard, you probably want to trim them back in April or May. This may affect the flowering or blooming of the plants, especially if the trim is a big one. And, this effect could last a couple of years. However, if it is sometimes necessary for the health and look of the plant.

Winter pruning is best for plants that are overgrown as well as late summer flowering shrubs. If it is a minor pruning and cutting back it should not affect the bloom for that summer. The blooms are typically only affected if there is a lot of trimming done. But, no worries, the plant will grow back beautiful and healthy.

You should not trim deciduous shrubs in the late summer. This can spur on growth, which will not have time to harden before the cold winter and it could cause harm to the shrub. This is the same for evergreens. Do not trim or prune evergreens in the late summer/early fall as it can open the tree up to possible winter injury. However, you can trim evergreens in the mid-summer, after their spring growth, but this isn’t the ideal time.

Fruit Tree Trimming

If you have fruit trees, you know how precious they are. Fruit trees take a bit to get established and once there are bearing fruit, it is important to understand how to properly care for them. For fruit trees, you should have them trimmed in February to early April. As long as it is a proper trim it should not affect the flowering or fruiting of the tree. However, like other trees, if you are taking a bit more than a simple prune, then it may take a couple of years for the fruit to come back. However, sometimes this is needed for the health of the tree.

Evergreen Trees cutbacks

Evergreens are a faster-growing tree and without proper trimming, they can easily grow out of control. Evergreens such as pine, spruce should be trimmed in late winter as well. The lower branches will need to be trimmed off as the tree grows, should you not want branches to the ground. There are limbs that go bad from time to time and these will need a good trimming as well. This will keep your tree looking great and staying healthy for years to come.

Pruning

Before you start trimming your tree, be sure you know and understand the proper way to trim a tree. Pruning is a common thing that homeowners neglect because they don’t fully understand the benefits of it or how to do it properly. Pruning can bring on more flowers to a flowering bush or more fruit to a fruit tree as it encourages growth. However, there is a proper way to cut when you are pruning. The cut should be a 45° cut and not straight across. You should also take note of where you are cutting and it shouldn’t be more than 1/4″ behind a new bud. This allows for proper nutrients to get new growth.

For expert Tree and Shrub Trimming contact us at https://www.fallaslandscape.com/

January 30, 2020