Maintaining a beautiful and healthy landscape in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) requires more than just occasional mowing or planting. With the region’s unique mix of rainy winters, dry summers, and ever-changing weather patterns, having a seasonal landscape maintenance strategy is essential for year-round curb appeal and property value.

Whether you live in Seattle, Olympia, Redmond, Lynnwood, or anywhere in between, this comprehensive checklist will guide you through what to focus on each season to keep your yard thriving and help you know when it’s time to bring in a professional.

Why Seasonal Landscape Maintenance Matters in the Pacific Northwest

The PNW is known for its moderate temperatures, lush vegetation, and extended rainy seasons. However, these conditions can also create challenges like drainage issues, moss overgrowth, and soil erosion.

• Regular seasonal maintenance ensures your yard stays:
• Healthy and disease-free
• Drought- and storm-resistant
• Visually appealing year-round
• Safe and functional for outdoor living

Following a tailored seasonal schedule helps prevent costly repairs and extends the life of your landscape investments.

Spring Landscape Maintenance Checklist

Focus: Clean-Up, Rejuvenation & Preparation

Spring is the time to wake your yard up from winter dormancy. Focus on cleaning up debris, encouraging new growth, and preparing your irrigation system.

• Remove fallen branches, leaves, and debris from lawns and beds
•  Prune dead or damaged branches from shrubs and trees
• Cut back ornamental grasses and perennials
• Fertilize lawn and garden beds
• Aerate and dethatch lawns for healthy root growth
• Test and adjust your irrigation or drip system
• Apply pre-emergent weed control
• Refresh mulch in flower beds and around trees
• Inspect hardscapes and pathways for winter damage

Bonus Tip: Spring is the perfect season to plant drought-tolerant natives like salal, sword ferns, and red flowering currants that thrive in the PNW climate.

Summer Landscape Maintenance Checklist

Focus: Watering, Pruning & Pest Control

With drier conditions setting in, your landscape needs extra hydration and attention to stay green and resilient.

• Water early in the morning or evening to minimize evaporation
• Monitor and repair sprinkler and drip irrigation systems
• Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Deadhead flowering plants to encourage new blooms
• Prune trees and shrubs for shape and airflow
• Inspect for pests and diseases like aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew
•  Mow lawns weekly and raise mower height to reduce heat stress
• Check drainage areas to ensure proper flow

Bonus Tip: Consider installing a smart irrigation controller to adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions—great for conserving water during drought.

Fall Landscape Maintenance Checklist

Focus: Cleanup, Planting & Winter Prep

Fall is the season for preparing your landscape for dormancy and taking advantage of cooler temperatures to plant perennials and trees.

• Rake leaves and compost or remove them
• Fertilize lawn with a fall-specific blend for root strength
•  Overseed thin or bare lawn patches
• Cut back perennials and remove annuals
• Plant bulbs, trees, and shrubs (the soil is still warm!)
• Divide overgrown plants like hostas and daylilies
• Shut down and winterize irrigation systems
• Clean and store garden tools and hoses
• Check and clean gutters and downspouts

Bonus Tip: Fall is a great time to plan landscape upgrades like custom fire pits, patios, or retaining walls for spring installation.

Winter Landscape Maintenance Checklist

Focus: Protection & Monitoring

While many plants are dormant, winter is still an important time for yard care—especially in a wet climate like the PNW.

• Wrap vulnerable plants or shrubs with burlap for frost protection
• Prune dormant trees and shrubs (especially fruit trees)
•  Remove fallen branches and snow-heavy debris
• Monitor for standing water or drainage issues
•  Check for signs of mold or fungus on hard surfaces
• Inspect retaining walls and outdoor lighting
•  Watch for signs of rodent or pest damage
• Keep walkways and driveways clear of slippery moss or ice

Bonus Tip: Use this downtime to schedule a consultation with a landscaping expert to plan improvements for the coming year.

Year-Round Tips for Pacific Northwest Landscaping
No matter the season, some maintenance habits are always helpful:

Keep an eye on drainage: The PNW’s rainy months can quickly overwhelm poorly designed yards. Installing or maintaining dry wells, French drains, or swales can protect your property.

Maintain hardscapes: Regularly clean and inspect patios, pathways, and masonry to prevent moss buildup and structural damage.

Use native and drought-tolerant plants: They require less water and are more resistant to pests and diseases common to the region.

Update lighting: Keep outdoor lighting clean and in good working order for safety and nighttime curb appeal.

When to Hire a Professional Landscaping Company
DIY landscape maintenance can be rewarding, but there are times when hiring a professional makes sense:

• You don’t have the time or tools for consistent upkeep
• You want a low-maintenance or climate-smart yard design
• You’re dealing with erosion, flooding, or complex grading
• You’re planning new features like patios, irrigation, or lighting
• You need a reliable, year-round maintenance plan

A professional team brings experience, tools, and horticultural knowledge tailored to the PNW climate—and helps protect your investment.

Stay Ahead of the Seasons with Dreamscapes Landscaping and Design
Keeping your landscape beautiful and functional throughout the year doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Dreamscapes Landscaping and Design, we specialize in seasonal maintenance services tailored to the unique demands of the Pacific Northwest.

From spring cleanups and summer irrigation to fall prep and winter monitoring, our expert team helps homeowners across Seattle, Lynnwood, Redmond, Olympia, and beyond protect and enhance their outdoor spaces. Whether you need a one-time seasonal service or year-round landscape care, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to simplify your landscape maintenance? Contact Dreamscapes Landscaping and Design for a free consultation.