New Year, New Yard: Top Landscaping Resolutions for Central Florida Homeowners

February is all about love—and in Central Florida, it’s also one of the best times to give your landscape a little extra attention. Cooler temperatures make outdoor projects more comfortable, plants experience less stress, and small improvements can create a noticeable transformation. If your yard has felt a little tired after the holidays (or you’ve been meaning to tackle a few lingering to-dos), here are practical ways to fall back in love with your outdoor space this February. 1) Start with a “clean slate”—a seasonal cleanup Nothing makes a yard feel “loved” faster than a clean, tidy look. Focus on: Removing fallen branches, leaves, and debris Cutting back dead or damaged growth Pulling weeds before they spread Clearing out beds so plants have room to breathe A cleanup instantly improves curb appeal and helps prevent pests and disease. 2) Refresh your mulch for an instant “before-and-after” Mulch is one of the quickest ways to make your landscape look professionally maintained. Top off mulch to a consistent 2–3 inches Keep mulch a few inches away from trunks and stems Re-edge beds for crisp lines that make everything look intentional This one change can make the entire property look brighter and more polished. 3) Add a pop of seasonal color (yes, Florida has winter color) Even in February, Central Florida landscapes can be full of color—you just need the right plants. Great cool-season options include: Petunias Snapdragons Dianthus Pansies and violas Add color where it matters most: Near the front entry Along the walkway Around the mailbox In containers by the porch or patio 4) Show your lawn some love with smart winter-season care Your warm-season grass may be growing slower, but February is a great time to set it up for spring. Keep mowing at the right height (avoid scalping) Watch for winter weeds and address them early Check for thin areas that may need a spring recovery plan A little attention now helps your lawn green up faster when temperatures rise. 5) Check irrigation settings (and stop watering like it’s July) Many irrigation systems are still running too often during the cooler months. A quick February check can: Prevent fungus and root issues Reduce wasted water Protect plants from overwatering stress If you’re seeing soggy spots or uneven coverage, it’s time for an adjustment. 6) Create one “love-it” moment in your yard You don’t need a full redesign to love your landscape again. Choose one small upgrade that changes how the space feels. Ideas that make a big impact: A refreshed entry bed with new edging and seasonal color A clean, defined border along the driveway or walkway A new container arrangement by the front door A simple bed redesign to open up views and improve flow These upgrades are affordable, fast, and satisfying—and they make your yard feel cared for. Fall back in love with your yard—we can help If your landscape needs a refresh, Kennedy Landscaping can help you bring it back to life with seasonal cleanups, bed refreshes, mulch, color installations, and ongoing maintenance. Contact Kennedy Landscaping today to schedule your February landscape service and fall back in love with your yard again.