leaf and debris removal Archives | MPS Property Services

September 14, 2026

Commercial Fall Cleanup Checklist: Preparing Your Property for Winter

Jenna Commercial Landscaping, Commercial News, General, Irrigation, Leaf Raking, Winter Trees commercial fall cleanup, commercial grounds maintenance, Commercial Property Maintenance, fall landscape cleanup, fall landscaping, GTA property maintenance, leaf and debris removal, Ontario commercial landscaping, Seasonal Landscape Maintenance, winter property preparation

As temperatures drop across Ontario, commercial landscapes need to be prepared for the months ahead. A proper fall cleanup does more than remove leaves – it protects lawns and gardens, keeps properties looking professional, and reduces the amount of work needed when spring arrives.

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Keep Leaves and Debris Under Control

Fallen leaves can quickly build up across large commercial properties. When left on lawns, heavy leaf cover can block sunlight and airflow, which can contribute to weak or damaged turf.

Removing leaves and debris before winter helps protect your lawn while keeping entrances, walkways, parking areas, and garden beds clean and presentable.

Cut Back Perennial Plants

Some perennial plants benefit from being cut back once they have finished growing for the season. Removing dead or damaged foliage helps keep garden beds tidy and prepares these plants for healthy new growth in the
spring.

However, not every perennial should be cut back in the fall. Some varieties provide winter interest or benefit from keeping their foliage until spring. Knowing which plants to cut back – and which ones to leave alone – helps protect your landscape through an Ontario winter.

Get Ahead of Spring Maintenance

A thorough fall cleanup means less work when the snow melts.

Removing leaves, weeds, dead annuals, and unwanted plant material in the fall prevents debris from sitting in garden beds all winter. It also gives landscaping crews a cleaner starting point in the spring.

That can mean faster spring cleanups and more time spent getting lawns and gardens ready for the growing season.

Finish the Season Strong

Commercial landscaping is one of the first things tenants, customers, and visitors see. A fall cleanup keeps your property looking maintained while helping your landscape enter winter in better condition.

MPS Property Services provides professional commercial grounds maintenance and seasonal cleanups throughout the GTA. Contact us today to discuss your property’s fall maintenance needs and get your landscape ready for winter – and next spring.

Jim Monk, President

GET A WINTER MAINTENANCE QUOTE FROM MPS TODAY

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September 19, 2025

The Complete Guide to Fall Garden Cleanup

Jenna Commercial Landscaping, Landscaping, Outdoor Living, Patio commercial grounds maintenance, fall garden cleanup, fall lawn care, fall pruning and trimming, irrigation winterization, leaf and debris removal, mulch installation, snow and ice management

Fall is one of the most important seasons for garden and landscape maintenance. Whether you have a residential yard or manage commercial property grounds, preparing your outdoor spaces before winter helps protect plants, keeps your property safe, and makes spring upkeep much easier.

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This guide breaks down the essential steps for a thorough fall garden cleanup—plus a reminder about our services for commercial properties.

Why Fall Cleanup Matters

Leaves, branches, and dead plant material may seem harmless, but if left over winter, they can cause problems:

– Disease and pests:

Decaying leaves and debris create a perfect home for insects and plant diseases.

– Winter damage:

Untrimmed plants can break under the weight of snow and ice.

– Curb appeal:

Clean, well-kept grounds leave a positive impression, especially for businesses.

Commercial fall cleanup crew mowing turf along a sidewalk with a zero turn mower at a business park

Step-by-Step Fall Garden Cleanup

1. Clear Leaves and Debris

Rake or blow leaves from lawns, gardens, and walkways. Leaves left on grass can trap moisture, leading to mold and bare patches. In commercial areas, keep walkways clear to prevent slips and maintain accessibility.

2. Prune and Trim

Cut back perennials that have died back for the season, remove dead or damaged branches from shrubs and trees, and shape hedges. This keeps plants healthy and prevents breakage in winter storms.

3. Weed and Edge Beds

Pull any remaining weeds before the ground freezes. Edging garden beds now gives them a crisp look through winter and makes spring planting easier.

4. Mulch and Protect Plants

Add mulch around the base of trees and shrubs to protect roots from temperature swings. For delicate plants, consider burlap wraps or protective covers to guard against harsh winds and frost.

5. Remove Annuals and Prepare Planters

Pull out dead annuals from garden beds and pots. Empty and clean planters to prevent cracking in freezing temperatures.

6. Lawn Care

Give your lawn a final cut, keeping grass about 2–2.5 inches high. If possible, aerate and apply a fall fertilizer to strengthen roots before dormancy.

7. Check Irrigation and Outdoor Fixtures

Shut down and drain irrigation systems to prevent frozen pipes. Inspect outdoor lighting for safety and visibility during shorter days.

Special Considerations for Commercial Properties

For businesses, fall cleanup is about more than just appearance—it’s about safety and protecting your investment. Clear walkways, well-lit entrances, and hazard-free parking areas keep employees and customers safe. Plus, maintaining healthy landscaping now reduces costly repairs or replacements in the spring.

Commercial properties also often have larger landscapes, meaning more debris to remove, more trees to prune, and bigger lawns to prepare. Professional crews have the equipment, manpower, and expertise to handle these jobs efficiently and without disruption to daily operations.

Final Tip

Don’t wait until the first frost—starting your fall cleanup early ensures plants are protected and your property stays in great shape all winter long.

For Commercial Grounds Maintenance Only

If you manage a commercial property and want a worry-free, professional fall cleanup, our team can help. We provide full-service grounds maintenance for businesses, including seasonal cleanups, turf care, pruning, and snow and ice management.

Residential homeowners—sorry! We don’t offer residential fall or spring cleanups, snow plowing, or ongoing grounds maintenance.

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Commercial fall cleanup technicians raking leaves and debris from shrub beds at an office property