Essential Winter Landscape Maintenance Tips for Property Managers
Winter weather can be unpredictable, and managing a commercial property through freezing temperatures, snow, and ice requires advanced preparation. Effective winter landscape maintenance is key to protecting your investment, reducing liability risks, and ensuring your site remains safe and visually appealing for tenants and visitors.
Below are the top winter landscape maintenance practices every property manager should follow.
Prioritize Snow & Ice Management for Safety
Snow and ice buildup is one of the biggest winter safety concerns for commercial properties. A proactive snow and ice management plan helps reduce slip-and-fall risks and ensures clear access for tenants and customers.
What to focus on:
Schedule preseason inspections for hardscape damage.
Establish a snow-removal plan with clear response times.
Choose the right de-icing materials (salt, brine, calcium-based solutions).
Ensure sidewalks, curbs, and drainage areas stay unobstructed.
Protect Plants and Shrubs from Winter Damage
Even dormant plants can suffer during winter.
Key strategies:
Apply anti-desiccant sprays on vulnerable evergreens.
Use burlap wraps or snow fencing to reduce windburn.
Gently brush heavy snow off shrubs to prevent breakage.
Avoid snow piling on planting beds, where it can compact soil and break branches.
Inspect Trees for Structural Weaknesses
Snow and ice add weight that can cause weakened limbs to break, which can damage buildings or cause hazards. Regular winter tree inspections help reduce emergency calls and prevent property damage.
Before winter, look for:
Cracks or splits in branches
Dead or diseased wood
Overextended limbs hanging over traffic areas
If issues are found, partner with a trusted tree care provider for safe corrective pruning.
Keep Drainage Systems Clear
Clogged drains can quickly turn melting snow into dangerous ice patches.
Make sure to:
Monitor areas where snowmelt pools and refreezes.
Evaluate grading issues before they become bigger problems in spring.
Good drainage will equal fewer hazards and healthier landscapes.
Prep Hardscapes to Withstand Winter Stress
Sidewalks, entrances, retaining walls, and curbing often take the brunt of winter wear.
Maintenance tips:
Repair cracks before they expand from freeze-thaw pressure.
Seal surfaces when appropriate to prevent water penetration.
Mark curbs, drains, and edges with reflective stakes for plow visibility.
This reduces accidental damage during snow removal and keeps repair budgets in check.
Use De-icers Responsibly to Protect Plants & Surfaces
While salt is effective, improper use can damage turf, shrubs, and concrete.
Best practices:
Calibrate spreaders for consistent application.
Use eco-friendly alternatives in sensitive areas.
Install physical barriers (like edging or burlap) near high-salt zones.
Partner with a Reliable Landscape Maintenance Partner this Winter
Winter landscape maintenance isn’t just about reacting to snow and ice. It's about being proactive. With the right planning, you can protect your property, minimize liability, and ensure your outdoor spaces remain functional and visually appealing all season long.