Get Prepared: Fall Clean-Up & Warming Up for Winter

The weather is changing, the air is crisp, leaves are falling, and lawns are ready for fall clean-up. In anticipation of the first frost, your to-do list is growing with tasks like cleaning up leaves, installing driveway markers, and getting ice melt ordered. Below is a guide of essentials for you to finish fall on a high note while also making sure you’re ready for anything this winter!

FALL CLEAN-UP

The equipment and supplies that you use in your clean-up efforts can truly make all the difference in the world, but so can timing and diligence. A few things to keep in mind during the fall include:

• Snow that sits on top of uncleared leaves prevents air circulation, essentially suffocating the grass below. Clearing leaves prior to the first snowfall is crucial for a healthy & lush spring lawn.
• Debris piled up around fences could lead to mold, as well as create a safe haven for pests and insects.
• Diversify your services & help prevent damage to a customer’s home by cleaning gutters.
• Whether you’re blowing, aerating, raking, or applying end of season lawn treatments, using the correct tools will make getting the job done easier. Your attention to detail will show in the spring when the snow melts and the weather begins to warm up.

The best place to start is consulting our 5-Step Lawn Program for seasonal advice on all things lawn care. You can also talk with one of our on-site plant health care specialists for more detailed guidance!

Visit www.russopower.com/fall-clean-up to see our top-of-the-line selection of fall clean-up products!

WINTER PREP

Unfortunately, we can’t predict the weather, especially here in the Midwest, which is why we should prepare well in advance. Our expert advice on snow & ice management solutions will help you breeze through the freeze and ensure you’re ready for the first snow fall!

• After sitting idle since last winter, ensure your fleet is running correctly. Start your equipment and let it run for a few minutes to warm up. If something isn’t functioning properly, make plans to get it repaired.
• Get all large attachments (plows, spreaders, etc.) installed ahead of the impending snowfall. If you aren't able to do this yourself, our skilled service professionals can help!
• It’s easy to overlook some of the smaller (but still essential) items you will need this winter. Things like ice scrapers, snow brushes, safety equipment, gloves, and even a Russo winter hat are indispensable, so make sure they’re included on your winter prep checklist!
• Driveway Markers are key for snow removal professionals to help avoid damage to property or equipment. Install them 10-15 feet apart, early in the season before the ground freezes to make life easier. For new accounts, take notes by checking Google maps to get an idea of how many you’ll need & where to place them. In general, it’s better to use more initially and scale back later if needed!
• Understanding specific de-icers & when to use them is vital to your ice management success. We offer bulk rock salt and liquid de-icer, as well as a large selection of packaged ice melts. To familiarize yourself with all of our ice melt offerings, visit our definitive de-icer guide!
• Make a daily habit of checking the weather forecast. It might not always be 100% accurate, but it can give you an idea of what to expect so you’ll be prepared no matter what Mother Nature throws at you!

To better understand the variety of equipment, de-icer, and tools we carry, check out www.russopower.com/winter-prep!