Living in Erie and Crawford Counties means dealing with a climate that is as beautiful as it is unpredictable. From the heavy lake-effect snows of January to the humid, lush growth of July, your property requires a strategic approach to stay healthy and functional.
At Kunco Landscape, we’ve spent over two decades (since 1999!) perfecting the art of maintaining local properties. This guide breaks down exactly what your landscape needs each season to thrive in our unique corner of Pennsylvania.
Spring: The Great Awakening
In Erie, spring is more than just a season; it’s a race against the clock. As the ground thaws, your property needs a "reset" from the winter salt and debris.
Spring Maintenance Priorities
- Debris & Leaf Removal: Leftover autumn leaves and winter twigs trap moisture against your lawn, which can lead to mold and "snow mold" patches.
- Pre-Emergent Application: Timing is everything. Applying a pre-emergent barrier in your garden beds early prevents crabgrass and weeds from ever taking root.
- Precision Trimming: Pruning ornamental trees and shrubs now encourages healthy growth and better blooms in the summer.
- Mulching: A fresh layer of premium mulch isn’t just for looks; it retains moisture and regulates soil temperature during our fluctuating spring weather.
Opportunities for Improvement
Spring is the ideal time for Lawn Installations. Whether you’re dealing with bare patches or need a full sod installation, the mild temperatures and frequent rain help new grass establish deep roots.
Ready for a Fresh Start?
Skip the back-breaking weekend chores. Our Spring Cleanup service handles the leaves, trimming, and mulching for you.
Summer: Living Large Outdoors
Summer in Northwestern PA is short—we have to make the most of every sunny day. This season is all about maintenance and enjoying the "outdoor room" of your home.
Summer Maintenance Priorities
- Consistent Mowing: Maintaining the proper height is crucial. Cutting grass too short during a Lake Erie heatwave can stress the roots and turn your lawn brown.
- Hydration & Drainage: While we get our fair share of rain, localized dry spells happen. Ensure your Drain Lines are clear so that sudden summer thunderstorms don't cause pooling near your foundation.
- Precision Edging: Nothing makes a property "pop" like clean, crisp edges along sidewalks and driveways.
Opportunities for Improvement
This is the peak season for Outdoor Living projects. If you’ve been dreaming of a space to host Friday night BBQs, consider:
- Patios & Fire Pits: Create a permanent gathering spot that adds value to your home.
- Landscape Lighting: Extend your evenings with strategically placed, low-voltage lighting that highlights your home's architecture.
Build Your Dream Summer Hangout
From custom pool surrounds to elegant stone patios, our Landscape Design and Construction team can turn your backyard into a private resort.
Autumn: Preparing for the Long Sleep
Fall in Crawford and Erie County is stunning, but it’s also the most critical time for preventative maintenance. What you do now determines how your lawn looks next May.
Autumn Maintenance Priorities
- The "Autumn Tidy-Up": Removing fallen leaves is vital. If left on the grass over winter, they mat down and suffocate the turf, leading to dead spots in the spring.
- Final Precision Trimming: We cut back perennials and trim shrubs to prevent "ice breakage"—where heavy snow snaps overextended branches.
- Site Grading: If you noticed water pooling during the summer, fall is the time to regrade your site. Proper slope ensures snowmelt moves away from your home, not into your basement.
Opportunities for Improvement
Before the ground freezes, consider installing Retaining or Seating Walls. These structures help manage erosion on sloped PA lots and provide extra seating for those chilly bonfire nights.
Protect Your Investment
Don't let your hard work go to waste under a pile of leaves. Our 8-Month Seasonal Contract includes a comprehensive autumn tidy-up to ensure your property is "winter-ready."
Winter: Safety and Survival
In Erie, winter isn't just a season—it's an event. When the lake-effect machine turns on, property maintenance shifts from aesthetics to safety and accessibility.
Winter Maintenance Priorities
- Snow Plowing & Shoveling: Keeping driveways and walkways clear isn't just about convenience; it’s about safety for your family and guests.
- Salting & De-Icing: Preventing ice bonds on your pavement reduces slip-and-fall risks.
- Snow Stacking & Removal: In high-volume winters, you may run out of places to put the snow. Professional Snow Off-Site Removal ensures your driveway doesn't become a narrow tunnel.
Opportunities for Improvement
While the ground is frozen, it’s the perfect time for Hardscape Planning. Use the winter months to work with our designers on your 3D landscape plans so we can break ground the moment the spring thaw hits.
Stay Warm, Stay Safe
Why wake up at 5:00 AM to shovel? Our 12-Month Seasonal Contract covers everything from summer mowing to 24/7 winter snow removal. Sign up for peace of mind today.
Kunco Maintenance Services at a Glance
|
Service |
8-Month Contract |
12-Month Contract |
A La Carte / One-Time |
|
Spring Refresh & Mulching |
✅ |
✅ |
Optional |
|
Regular Lawn Mowing |
✅ |
✅ |
Optional |
|
Precision Trimming |
✅ |
✅ |
Optional |
|
Autumn Tidy-Up |
✅ |
✅ |
Optional |
|
Snow Plowing & Salting |
❌ |
✅ |
Optional |
|
Landscape Design/Build |
Optional |
Optional |
✅ |
Why Choose Kunco Landscape?
Since 1999, we’ve built our reputation on transparency and expertise. We aren't just a "mow and go" crew; we are trained professionals who use premium materials and high-end equipment to treat your property like our own. Whether you're in Erie, Meadville, or anywhere in between, we are your local partners in property excellence.