5 Landscape Issues Property Managers Should Address Before Summer
As Wisconsin transitions from spring into summer, commercial properties begin to reveal the effects of winter weather and early spring conditions. From turf damage to drainage concerns, now is the ideal time for property managers to evaluate their landscapes before the busy summer season arrives.
Addressing these issues early not only improves curb appeal, but also helps protect your property, improve safety, and reduce costly repairs later in the season.
1. Drainage Problems & Standing Water
One of the most common issues after snow melt and spring rain is poor drainage. Areas with standing water, erosion, or soggy turf can quickly become larger problems if left unaddressed.
Drainage issues can:
Damage turf and plant material
Create muddy, unusable spaces
Lead to erosion around sidewalks and foundations
Increase mosquito activity
Create slip hazards for visitors and employees
Property managers should inspect:
Low spots in lawn areas
Downspout discharge locations
Parking lot drainage
Retaining wall areas
Sidewalk edges and entry points
Addressing drainage concerns early can help preserve the health and appearance of your landscape throughout the summer months.
2. Dead or Damaged Plant Material
Winter conditions can be especially tough on trees, shrubs, and perennial plantings. Salt exposure, snow piles, freezing temperatures, and heavy winds often leave behind dead or damaged material that impacts the appearance of the property.
Signs to look for include:
Browning evergreen shrubs
Broken branches
Dead ornamental grasses
Plants that failed to bloom or leaf out
Salt-damaged areas near roadways and sidewalks
Removing dead material and refreshing landscape beds with new mulch and seasonal color can dramatically improve curb appeal and create a more welcoming environment for tenants, visitors, and customers.
3. Irrigation System Startup & Repairs
A properly functioning irrigation system is essential heading into warmer weather. Spring startup is the perfect time to identify leaks, broken heads, controller issues, or inefficient coverage before summer heat arrives.
An irrigation inspection should include:
Testing all zones
Adjusting sprinkler heads
Checking for leaks or pressure issues
Updating watering schedules
Ensuring proper coverage for turf and landscape beds
Ignoring irrigation problems can lead to dry patches, plant stress, wasted water, and increased utility costs during peak summer temperatures.
4. Turf Damage from Winter Stress
Snow mold, salt damage, plow damage, and compacted snow can all leave turf looking thin and unhealthy in spring.
Common problem areas include:
Along sidewalks and parking lots
Snow pile locations
High-traffic pedestrian areas
Areas affected by ice melt products
Early-season lawn care services such as aeration, overseeding, fertilization, and proper mowing practices can help restore healthy turf growth before summer stress sets in.
Healthy turf not only improves appearance, but also helps create a safer and more enjoyable environment for everyone using the property.
5. Safety Hazards Left Behind After Winter
Winter can leave behind hidden hazards that become liability concerns if not addressed quickly. Spring walkthroughs are critical for identifying areas that may need repair or attention.
Potential hazards include:
Uneven sidewalks
Damaged curbs
Eroded pathways
Low-hanging or damaged branches
Potholes near landscaped areas
Loose retaining wall blocks or edging
Proactively addressing these issues helps improve safety while maintaining a professional appearance for your property.
Preparing Your Property for a Successful Summer
A proactive approach to landscape maintenance in late spring can prevent larger issues later in the season while keeping your property looking its best.
At Villani Landshapers, we work with commercial properties throughout southeastern Wisconsin to help maintain safe, attractive, and professionally managed landscapes all season long.
Whether your property needs seasonal cleanup, lawn care, irrigation services, or landscape improvements, our team is here to help you prepare for summer success.