Issue link: https://nest.uberflip.com/i/832218
Tidy up the Flower Beds Clear out weeds and use a spade to redefine bed edges. Till the top inch or two of soil if it's tightly packed, being careful not to disturb any bulbs below. Apply 2 to 3 inches of mulch. Fill in the Grass Remove leaves and twigs and de-thatch dead grass with a metal rake. Ask for help choosing the right seed at a garden center, then apply it to bald patches or anywhere you want a thicker lawn. Quick tip: Weed-killing fertilizer will work fastest if applied right before it rains. Fix the Sprinkler Check for any winter damage, including broken heads and cracked pipes, by running your sprinkler one zone at a time. Any bubbling or geyser-like area needs a new head. De-gunk the Birdbath Empty the bath and fill it with warm water and ΒΌ cup of chlorine bleach. (Bleach is safe if you rinse thoroughly, but you can also swap it for 1 cup of white vinegar.) Cover the bath with a tarp or plastic bag, and let the solution soak for 30 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. Hose Down the Air-conditioning Condenser Shut down the power on the electric panel, then clear away any leaves or branches lodged in the unit. Wash down all the coils with a garden hose. If you find any chewed wires, call a pro to repair them. Clear Out the Gutters Clean leaves and debris from your gutters. The next time it rains, stand outside and look for breaks or leaks in your gutters and downspouts.