1. Dig up the Dead Stuff. This summer was brutal on plants and shrubs. If they look dead and haven't come back with all the recent rains, they probably aren't coming back. Just go ahead and dig them up - empty space looks neater and cleaner than dead bushes.
2. Add Color. Just a few pots with clusters of seasonal blooming plants will brighten up your walkway or doorway.
3. Shape Trees and Shrubs. It's easy to let stray branches grow until they're huge and unweildy. Catch them now and your trees will be stronger and healthier and neater looking. Shrubs against the house can tear window screens, attract unwanted pests and make your house look dark. Keep them pruned back so they'll be healthier and won't overwhelming the approach to the house.
4. Light It Up. Make sure the bulbs on your porch and coachlights are working. Consider adding spotlights to trees or larger shrubs. Solar powered lights are easy and inexpensive to install at walkways, back patios and in flower beds. Just don't overdo it - when strategically placed, less is more.
5. Weed & Feed. While the grass is in a somewhat dormant stage this winter, it's a good time to give it nutrients and keep the fast-growing weeds at bay. Most major home and garden centers carry organic mixes if you don't want to put a lot of chemicals on your lawn.
6. Make Windows Neutral and Consistent. This is an inside tip that translates to a neater outside look. Make all the windows that face the front of your house match. This might mean lining colored curtains or drapes with a white lining, or putting up blinds or shades that are all the same color. Different colors and materials may fit your decorating inside, but when viewed from the outside of the house they can be very distracting and break up a nice, neat curb view.
Enjoy the weather - and enjoy your home!
