Get the most green for your greenbacks with these money-saving tips.
1. Perennials on sale: Moderate temperatures and increasing rainfalls in most climate zones make fall an ideal time to plant trees, shrubs, and other perennials. Plus you can find some terrific bargains as nurseries and garden centers liquidate their summertime inventories. It’s also a good time to divide perennials, making more plants for free!
2. Lawn improvements: Remember that your grass is probably a perennial too, so fall is the perfect time in most areas to seed or reseed lawns. You can sometimes negotiate a lower rate on sod installation and lawn improvement services.
3. Equipment deals: Fall closeout sales offer some of the lowest prices of the year on warm weather lawn and garden equipment and supplies. Look for limited quantity items that are marked down dramatically in the store and not necessarily advertised in flyers.
4. Composting: Fall is the time to start a compost pile to ensure a ready supply of natural—and free—fertilizer come next spring. Make a simple compost pile by staking a hoop of three-foot-high mesh fencing. Be sure air can circulate on all sides.
5. Outdoor building projects: Didn’t get around to that landscape makeover? You’ll find competitive prices on all manner of DIY construction materials at most home improvement centers. And if you’re hiring contractors, it’s a buyer’s market since many are looking for new gigs.