Preparing Your Lawn for Fall: Aerating, Overseeding, and More

Minnesota summers are beautiful—but they can also be tough on your lawn. Between hot sun, heavy storms, and high foot traffic, it’s common to see your turf struggle during the warmer months. At The Grounds Crew, we’re here to help you identify and solve the most common summer lawn problems so you can enjoy a lush, green yard all season long.

Minnesota homeowners know that a beautiful yard does more than boost curb appeal. It’s a reflection of our state’s unique seasons and a source of year-round enjoyment. But how do you choose the right plants and fillers for a Minnesota lawn or garden? When you factor in the local climate, light conditions, and soil types, it can seem daunting. But with some targeted advice, you can create inviting, resilient green spaces. This guide shares what you need to grow a flourishing Minnesota landscape. You’ll learn how our climate shapes plant choices, get our expert picks for shade, part-sun, and full-sun plants (with care tips), and discover ideal fillers for local garden beds. Plus, we’ll reveal why so many Minnesota homeowners trust The Grounds Crew for transforming ordinary yards into exceptional outdoor spaces. Understanding Minnesota’s Climate and Landscaping Challenges Minnesota is well-known for its swings in temperature and varied precipitation. Plants here must survive frigid winters, late spring frosts, sticky summers, and the occasional drought. The U.S. Department of Agriculture classifies most of the state as Zone 3a to 4b, meaning plant hardiness is essential. What does this mean for your choices? You need plants that: Can withstand deep freezes and snow coverage. Thrive during short, intense growing seasons. Endure both wet spring soils and dry late-summer spells. Handle varying levels of sun and shade, depending on your property. That’s why local expertise matters. The right selection blends beauty with resilience, saving you time, money, and frustration. The Essential Guide to Sun Exposure Before you dig or shop, assess your landscape’s light conditions. Here’s a quick breakdown: Shade : Less than 2 hours of direct sunlight daily. Part Sun : 2–6 hours of direct sun, typically morning or late afternoon. Full Sun : 6+ hours of direct sunlight in an open area. Plants and fillers thrive or struggle based on these categories, so knowing your garden’s microclimate guides better decisions. Top Shade-Loving Plants for Minnesota Yards Got mature trees or a north-facing property? Your options are far from limited. The right shade plants create lush, layered textures. Hosta (Hosta spp.) Hostas are the gold standard for shade gardens across Minnesota. Known for their bold leaves in shades of green, blue, and gold, they handle snow and thrive in moist, well-drained soils. Care tips: Water deeply during dry spells. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Divide overcrowded clumps in the spring or fall. Astilbe (Astilbe spp.) With feathery, plume-like flowers in shades of pink, red, or white, astilbes brighten dark corners from late spring to early summer. Care tips: Plant in rich, organic soil. Keep evenly moist; astilbe is not drought-tolerant. Northern Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum pedatum) This native fern brings delicate beauty and a woodland vibe. It thrives in cool, moist, shaded areas. Care tips: Ensure consistent moisture and good drainage. Trim dead fronds in spring. Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis) A spring favorite, bleeding heart offers arching stems of heart-shaped flowers. This perennial prefers dappled shade and rich loam. Care tips: Water regularly. Allow foliage to die back naturally for winter dormancy. Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense) A superb native groundcover, wild ginger forms a dense mat and tolerates deep shade. It also attracts pollinators. Care tips: Establish in slightly acidic, humus-rich soil. Water when the top inch of soil dries out. 

When it comes to commercial properties, first impressions matter. Whether you're managing an a retail center, office building, or apartment complex, the condition of your landscape sends a strong message to clients, tenants, and visitors. That’s why investing in a professional lawn mowing and maintenance schedule isn’t just a luxury—it’s a smart business decision. At TGC Property Services , we help commercial property owners maintain safe, attractive, and well-managed outdoor spaces year-round. Here’s why it pays to go pro. 1. Curb Appeal That Reflects Your Brand The lawn is one of the first things people notice when they visit your property. A well-kept landscape: Creates a positive, professional first impression Enhances property value and tenant satisfaction Reflects your commitment to quality and care Professional mowing ensures consistent results that make your property look polished, no matter the season. 2. Reliable, Consistent Service With a scheduled maintenance plan, you never have to worry about overgrown grass, weeds, or patchy areas. TGC Property Services follows a customized mowing and care schedule tailored to your property’s needs and growing conditions. This ensures: Timely cuts to prevent overgrowth and weed spread Uniform lawn height for a clean, consistent appearance Proactive care to avoid problems before they escalate You can focus on your business—we’ll handle the lawn. 3. Healthier Grass, Fewer Issues Routine mowing and maintenance keep your turf healthy from the roots up. Our professional team knows the ideal mowing height and timing to: Encourage thick, lush grass growth Prevent weed takeover and pest issues Improve soil health and moisture retention When paired with services like fertilization , aeration , and seasonal clean-ups , your lawn stays in peak condition all year long. 4. Improved Safety & Liability Protection Overgrown grass and neglected landscaping don’t just look bad—they can become safety hazards. Regular mowing and trimming reduce risks like: Hidden debris or tripping hazards Pests or insects hiding in tall grass Limited visibility around signage or walkways With TGC Property Services, you’ll ensure your property is safe, compliant, and welcoming. 5. Cost Savings Over Time Skipping regular maintenance often leads to expensive fixes—like sod replacement, erosion repair, or weed infestation control. A set schedule: Reduces long-term repair and replacement costs Keeps irrigation systems and hardscapes functioning properly Allows for easier budget planning with predictable costs Preventative care pays off in the long run. Ready for a Worry-Free Lawn Maintenance Plan? A clean, professional landscape doesn’t happen by chance. It takes expert care, consistent scheduling, and attention to detail—exactly what you’ll get with TGC Property Services.  Let us build a commercial lawn care plan that works for your property and your budget. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our mowing and maintenance services.

A lush, green lawn doesn't happen by chance. Behind every beautifully manicured yard is a well-planned lawn care routine tailored to the seasons. A lawn care calendar helps homeowners stay on top of essential tasks throughout the year, ensuring their lawn is healthy, vibrant, and the envy of the neighborhood. If you're unsure where to start or feel overwhelmed by the complexities of lawn maintenance, this guide will walk you through a seasonal approach to lawn care and show how The Grounds Crew can assist at every step of the way.

Spring offers more than just warmer weather and blooming flowers; it’s a season of renewal and revitalization for commercial properties. For property managers, spring maintenance is vital for ensuring pristine lawns, healthy landscapes, and safe outdoor areas. A thoughtful and proactive approach not only boosts curb appeal but also prevents costly repairs in the long run. At The Grounds Crew, we specialize in providing year-round exterior maintenance for commercial properties, ensuring your landscape enhances the professionalism and value of your property. With this comprehensive checklist, property managers can tackle spring maintenance efficiently and effectively.

Winter in Minnesota brings more than just picturesque landscapes—it comes with the challenge of snow-covered driveways, sidewalks, and roofs. While the snow blanket may look beautiful, it creates safety hazards and disrupts your daily routine. Removing snow effectively is essential for keeping your property safe and accessible. This guide provides effective and safe DIY snow removal tips. Whether it’s clearing heavy snowfalls or ensuring you don’t slip and slide on icy surfaces, these strategies will help you ace the snow removal game.

Learn how to prevent slip-and-fall accidents this winter. Discover key risks, legal tips, and snow removal advice tailored for commercial properties.

Minnesota winters are known for their breathtaking snowy landscapes, but they also pose unique challenges for homeowners. Properly preparing your yard for winter not only ensures that it will shine beautifully come spring but also makes it easier to manage throughout the snowy months. By taking a few essential steps this fall, you can protect your plants, maintain your lawn's health, and enjoy a picturesque yard all winter long. Why Winter Preparation Matters Before we get into the nitty-gritty of winterizing your yard, let's discuss why it's crucial. Minnesota's harsh winters can be tough on lawns and gardens, but with the right preparation, you'll minimize the damage and set the stage for lush growth in the spring. Pre-winter tasks like clearing debris, cutting back plants, and insulating delicate shrubs can make all the difference. Plus, a well-maintained yard is easier to manage and keep safe during snowfalls. Essential Tasks to Prepare Your Yard for Winter 1. Rake and Remove Leaves Leaves might create a beautiful carpet of color, but leaving them on your lawn over winter can smother grass and lead to disease. Regularly rake and remove leaves during the fall to ensure your lawn can breathe. Consider composting the leaves for an environmentally friendly disposal method. 2. Aerate Your Lawn Aerating involves perforating the soil with small holes to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the grass roots. This is especially important before winter as it helps combat soil compaction and ensures your lawn can absorb moisture when the snow melts. Tip: Aerate your lawn in late September or early October for best results. Rent an aerator or hire a professional service if needed. 3. Apply Fall Fertilizer Feeding your lawn before winter provides essential nutrients that help grass roots grow stronger, even during dormancy. Use a high-potassium fertilizer to prepare your lawn for the cold weather ahead. Tip: Check with your local garden center for fertilizers specifically formulated for Minnesota's soil and climate. 4. Prune Trees and Shrubs Trim dead or diseased branches from trees and shrubs to prevent winter breakage caused by heavy snow and ice. Pruning also encourages healthy growth come spring. Tip: Use sharp tools for clean cuts and avoid pruning in late fall to prevent stimulating new growth that might not withstand cold. 5. Protect Sensitive Plants Cover delicate bushes and perennials with burlap or protective fabric to shield them from harsh winds and frost. Mulching around the base can also provide insulation. Tip: Consider shifting potted plants indoors or into a sheltered area to give them a better chance of surviving the winter. 6. Clean Gutters and Downspouts Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams and water damage, which are common issues in Minnesota's winter. Ensure gutters and downspouts are clear of leaves and debris for proper drainage. Tip: After cleaning, ensure that downspouts direct water away from the foundation to prevent leaks and flooding. Elevate Your Winter Readiness with Expert Assistance By following these steps, you'll set the stage for a vibrant yard once the snow melts. However, tackling winter alone can be daunting. This is where The Grounds Crew comes in. Our professional snow removal services offer several benefits: Timely Removal: We'll ensure your paths and driveways are cleared promptly after each snowfall. Correct Tools: We use the right equipment for all types of snow and ice, ensuring effective and safe removal. Less Physical Strain: Avoid the backbreaking work of shoveling snow on your own. Safety First: Clear paths reduce the risk of slips and falls, keeping you and your family safe. Professional Communication: Our team keeps you informed every step of the way, providing reliable and consistent service. Prepare for winter with confidence—consider hiring The Grounds Crew to handle your snow removal needs and give your yard the care it deserves. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help make your Minnesota winter as stress-free as possible.

As winter sets in, Minnesota homeowners know just how intense the cold season can be. At The Grounds Crew, we specialize in snow removal, but there’s much more to managing a home during the frosty months. Here are some essential tips to prepare your home for winter and keep it running smoothly through Minnesota’s harsh conditions. 1. Prepare Your Yard for Snow If you have delicate plants or shrubs, protect them from heavy snow and frost by covering them with burlap or frost cloths. Mark the edges of your driveway and walkways with stakes to guide snow plows and shovels, ensuring you don’t accidentally damage your lawn or garden during snow removal. 2. Prepare Your Roof and Gutters Ice dams are a common winter hazard in Minnesota, causing water to back up under your shingles and lead to leaks. To prevent this, make sure your gutters are clean and free of debris. Installing gutter guards can also help. Before winter fully sets in, check your roof for missing or damaged shingles, and ensure your attic has proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. 3. Inspect Exterior Water Sources Make sure to drain and shut off exterior faucets to prevent them from freezing and bursting. If you have a sprinkler system, it should be winterized by blowing out the water from the pipes. Insulate any exposed pipes in unheated areas of your home to avoid costly repairs from freezing. 4. Seal and Insulate Your Home A well-insulated home can make all the difference in your energy bills and comfort. Check for drafts around windows, doors, and the attic. Use caulk to seal any cracks, and consider installing weatherstripping where needed. Adding insulation to the attic can also prevent heat from escaping and reduce the risk of ice dams forming on your roof. 5. Test Your Heating System Before the temperatures drop too low, have your furnace or heating system inspected by a professional. Regular maintenance can catch problems early and help your system run more efficiently. Change your furnace filters monthly during the winter to ensure the best airflow and air quality. If you use a fireplace, now’s the time to clean the chimney and stock up on firewood. 6. Service Your Snow Removal Equipment If you prefer to handle snow removal yourself, now is the time to tune up your snowblower. Check the oil, replace spark plugs if necessary, and make sure your machine is ready to tackle the heavy Minnesota snowfall. Keep shovels handy, and invest in a good de-icer for your walkways and driveway. Or, if you’d rather leave snow removal to the pros, The Grounds Crew is here to help! We offer reliable, timely snow removal services so you can enjoy a safe, clear driveway and sidewalk all winter long without the hassle. By following these winter home management tips, you can ensure your Minnesota home stays safe, warm, and well-maintained throughout the cold months. If you need help with snow removal, The Grounds Crew has you covered. Contact us today to schedule your winter services and let us handle the snow, so you don’t have to! Stay warm and stay safe this winter! The Grounds Crew – Your Snow Removal Experts