Well, folks, the off-season doesn’t have to mean the end of lawn care joy. Just because the grass isn’t growing doesn’t mean you can’t stay busy or productive. Here are a few tips that’ll keep you in the game and ready for when spring finally comes knocking.
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Give Your Mower the TLC It Deserves
Every good mower deserves a little love after a hard season of work. First thing’s first: give it a good cleaning. Scrape off the gunk underneath the deck, sharpen the blades, and make sure to drain the gas tank if you didn’t add stabilizer. Change out the oil, replace the air filter, and check the spark plug for wear. These small steps now will save you big headaches come spring. Don’t forget to check in with your local OPE dealer if anything seems out of whack—they’re the experts when it comes to keeping your tools in top shape.
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Draft a Plan for Next Season
Here’s where you can channel your inner project manager. Grab a notebook, a hot cup of coffee, and take some time to think about what worked—and what didn’t—this past year. Maybe you want to overseed in the spring or try out a new fertilizer program. Heck, maybe it’s time to install those raised garden beds you’ve been thinking about. Write it all down and get a jump on ordering what you’ll need before everyone else has the same idea.
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Organize Your Tools
Nothing beats a well-organized workspace, and now’s the time to get yours in order. Hang those rakes and shovels on a wall rack, build a simple pegboard for your small tools, and toss out anything that’s broken or beyond repair. If you’re feeling ambitious, you might even install a workbench or some new storage cabinets. A well-organized shed or garage makes every job just a little bit easier—and you’ll thank yourself for it when spring rolls around.
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Learn Something New About Lawn Care
You can never know too much, right? Pick up a book, watch a few videos, or dive into a blog (The Mowing Life comes to mind). You might learn something surprising, like how to sharpen your mower blades better or the benefits of mulching your clippings. If you’ve got the time, why not make yourself an expert?
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Enjoy What You’ve Got
Winter doesn’t mean you can’t take pride in your yard. Even if the grass isn’t growing, a clean, well-kept lawn is still something to admire. Clear away any leaves or debris, maybe add a touch of seasonal decor with some lights or a firepit. Remember, your lawn’s still a part of your home—even when it’s taking a break.
The off-season is a gift, really. It’s time to prepare, reflect, and even dream a little.
When spring comes—and it always does—you’ll be ready to roll out with sharper blades, smarter plans, and maybe even a cleaner garage. Remember, the joy of mowing doesn’t end with the season—it’s in the care and pride you take every step of the way.
Got any off-season projects you’re tackling? Share them with us using #JoyOfMowing—after all, we’re all in this together.