Common Fall Lawn Care & Landscaping Challenges in Plano, TX (and How to Overcome Them)

Fall in North Texas brings cooler temperatures, shorter days, and the perfect opportunity to prepare your lawn and landscape for the months ahead. But homeowners in Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, and the surrounding areas face unique challenges during this season—from stubborn weeds to heavy leaf buildup.

Whether you’re handling yard work yourself or calling in the pros, understanding these common fall lawn care and landscaping challenges—and how to fix them—will help you maintain a healthy, attractive yard all year long.

1. Leaf & Debris Accumulation

The problem:
Falling leaves, twigs, and plant debris can quickly cover your yard. Left alone, this layer traps moisture, blocks sunlight, and creates a breeding ground for pests, mold, and lawn disease.

How to fix it:

• Use a blower or rake weekly to keep lawns and landscape beds clear.

• Mulch small amounts of leaves into the grass for nutrients, but remove thick layers completely.

• Consider professional leaf removal for thorough seasonal cleanups, especially if you have large trees or limited time.

2. Persistent Fall Weeds

The problem:
Weeds like clover, dandelion, and chickweed thrive in cooler weather. If not addressed in fall, they’ll return stronger in spring.

How to fix it:

• Apply a fall pre-emergent herbicide to prevent germination.

• Spot-treat visible weeds with a selective post-emergent.

• Keep grass healthy with proper mowing and fertilization—thick turf naturally resists weeds.

3. Weak or Patchy Grass

The problem:
High summer heat and foot traffic can leave your lawn thin and uneven by fall. Bare spots invite weeds and reduce curb appeal.

How to fix it:

• Overseed thin areas early in the fall growing season.

• Keep seeded spots moist until germination.

• Use liquid aeration to loosen compacted soil so new grass roots can establish.

4. Compacted Soil

The problem:
Clay-heavy North Texas soil often becomes compacted over time, reducing the movement of water, oxygen, and nutrients to roots.

How to fix it:

• Apply liquid lawn aeration for even, plug-free coverage.

• Avoid excessive foot traffic on wet lawns to prevent further compaction.

• Combine aeration with fall fertilization for the best results.

5. Overgrown Trees & Shrubs

The problem:
Untrimmed plants can look messy, block sunlight from reaching grass, and become more vulnerable to winter damage.

How to fix it:

• Prune ornamental trees and shrubs in late fall to reduce plant stress.

• Remove dead or damaged branches to prevent breakage.

• Shape plants for a neat, balanced look that lasts through winter.

6. Uneven Watering

The problem:
Many homeowners turn off sprinklers too early in fall, leaving lawns under-watered before winter dormancy.

How to fix it:

• Water deeply but less frequently, allowing soil to dry slightly between watering.

• Adjust irrigation schedules based on rainfall and cooler temperatures.

• Prioritize watering after fertilization and aeration.

7. Poor Fertilization Timing

The problem:
Skipping fall fertilization leaves grass without the nutrients it needs to store energy for winter survival and spring growth.

How to fix it:

• Use a fertilizer formulated for North Texas lawns in mid-to-late fall.

• Apply evenly across your lawn, following label instructions.

• Pair fertilization with weed control for a comprehensive fall treatment.

8. Unprepared Landscape Beds

The problem:
Neglected flower beds and plantings can become overrun with weeds, lose soil moisture, and appear untidy through winter.

How to fix it:

• Remove summer annuals and cut back perennials.

• Apply 2–3 inches of fresh mulch to retain moisture and insulate roots.

• Edge beds for a crisp, clean appearance.

Your Fall Lawn Care Partner in Plano, TX

Fall lawn care in Plano, TX is about more than just raking leaves—it’s about preparing your yard to survive winter and thrive in spring. By tackling these challenges early, you’ll save time, money, and frustration next year.

At College Fund Landscaping, we offer professional fall cleanup, leaf removal, weed control, fertilization, tree and shrub trimming, and liquid aeration—all tailored to North Texas lawns. Whether you need a full-service plan or a little extra help, we’re here to make your yard the best on the block.

📞 Request a quote online to schedule your fall services.