Key Landscape Tasks Before the Snow

If you’re in the Wilmington area (Zone 7a), these last-minute, high-impact tasks will protect plants, edges, and walkways when snow shows up—no fuss, no wasted effort.

Quick take (skim this and you’re set):

Stake edges: Mark driveway, bed lines and new sod so plows and shovels don’t shred them.
De-icer + dump zone: Use plant-safer melt (magnesium/CMA), keep rock salt off beds, and pick where snow gets piled.
Route meltwater: Clear downspouts and swales (shallow drainage channels) so runoff doesn’t refreeze on walks; flag chronic puddles for spring fixes.
Secure the vulnerable: Light-tie arborvitae, lift pots on blocks, and pull fragile décor from shovel paths.

For deeper plant-specific tactics, see our recent blog, 5 Cold-Weather Plant Protection Strategies You Might Not Be Using. For a broader pre-season checklist, revisit 7 Expert Tips to Prepare Your Delaware Landscape for Winter.

Stake and Shield the Snow Path

Snow makes edges disappear. Before the first storm:

Stake driveway lines, new sod seams, and bed borders so plows and shovels don’t chew them up.
Add temporary edge guards near fragile corners, path lights, or new plantings along traffic routes.
Mark hardscape transitions—pavers to asphalt, patio steps, or curb cuts—to prevent scuffs and popped joints.

A few stakes now can save you spring repairs. If you’d like a pro to walk you through it, contact us today to book a quick winter-readiness check-in.

Stage Safer De-Icing + Pick a Snow “Dump Zone”

What you melt—and where you put it—matters.

Choose plant-safer de-icer (magnesium/CMA blends). Keep rock salt off lawns and beds; it can burn roots and soil.
Stage a scoop at each entry for measured use—less scatter, less damage.
Pick a dump zone now: a sunny, drainable spot away from beds, young trees, and salt-sensitive plants.
On paver walks or patios, avoid sharp tools; use a plastic shovel and gentle technique to protect joints.

Need help selecting materials or setting a plan for your property? Our Maintenance Services team can advise and set you up.

Route Meltwater and Secure the Vulnerable Spots

Melt becomes ice if it has nowhere to go.

Clear downspouts, leaders (downspout pipes), and swales (shallow drainage channels) so runoff doesn’t refreeze on walks or pool in beds.
Flag chronic low spots for a spring fix—French drain, regrade, or a catch basin via our Design/Build team.
Light-tie columnar evergreens (e.g., arborvitae) to prevent snow splay; lift pots onto blocks so they don’t freeze to surfaces.
Pull fragile décor and hoses from shovel routes; check path lighting and handrails for safe footing at night.

These small moves prevent breakage today and reduce surprise repairs in March.

Doing the Hard Work, The Right Way

Winter prep shouldn’t be complicated. We walk your property, prioritize what matters, and finish before the storm. That means safe paths, protected edges, and fewer surprises in spring.

Ready to protect your landscape before the snow?

Schedule your seasonal cleanup by contacting us today, and we’ll get you on the calendar.