As grounds managers look toward 2025, the challenges and opportunities of the past year offer a wealth of insight. From winterizing outdoor spaces to planning for spring growth, strategic maintenance is essential for keeping institutional and commercial properties functional, appealing, and marketable. Here’s how to build on the lessons of 2024 and start the new year strong.
Winter mulching is a crucial step often overlooked. By applying a 2–4-inch layer of mulch around trees, shrubs, and garden beds before the deep freeze, grounds managers can regulate soil temperature to prevent root shock during freeze-thaw cycles.
Mulch can also help to retain moisture in the soil, which is vital during dry and windy winter months. Commercial and institutional landscaping typically has a larger area, making moisture retention even more important.
Applying organic mulch like wood chips or shredded bark in winter helps minimize weed growth come early spring and protects against erosion caused by heavy snowmelt. Over time, the mulch decomposes, enriching the soil with vital nutrients for healthier plants.
The Federal Reserve’s lower interest rates in 2024 have made capital improvement projects more affordable. This trend is likely to continue into 2025, creating a prime opportunity to invest in outdoor spaces like patios and seating areas that enhance tenant satisfaction.
Hardscape features such as retaining walls and drainage systems can also boost property value while minimizing maintenance costs. Planning these projects in the winter ensures they are ready for use by spring, maximizing ROI and tenant engagement.
Winterizing your property should be completed before the first frost. Focus on irrigation systems and make sure to blow out sprinkler lines to prevent freezing and cracking.
For tree care, prune dormant trees to encourage healthy spring growth and reduce the risk of snow-laden branches breaking. Store or cover outdoor furniture to prevent damage from snow and ice. Seal cracks in pathways and driveways to prevent freeze-thaw damage, which will end up costing a lot more in the long run if left untreated. Being proactive reduces emergency repair costs and preserves property aesthetics through the winter.
Understanding the distinction between hardscapes (patios, walkways, retaining walls) and softscapes (grass, flowers, shrubs) is critical for long-term planning. Hardscapes require less ongoing maintenance and provide durability against seasonal changes.
Softscapes, on the other hand, improve air quality, and can also improve aesthetics and tenant satisfaction. Softscapes just require more seasonal care. Combining these elements strategically can create inviting outdoor spaces that meet both practical and visual needs. Both can also be enhanced with lighting or heated features to make them usable year-round.
The foundation for a vibrant, healthy landscape in spring begins with preparation during the winter months. Late winter is an ideal time to test and amend soil to address pH imbalances and nutrient deficiencies, ensuring the ground is primed for new growth. Overseeding bare patches of grass just before snowmelt allows seeds to germinate as temperatures begin to rise, creating a fuller, greener lawn.
Ordering plants early not only secures supply but often saves on costs, avoiding the seasonal rush. Opting for native plants is a sustainable choice, as they require less water, are more resistant to local pests, and align with eco-conscious landscaping practices.
Outdoor amenities such as fire pits, pergolas, and dining areas are increasingly viewed as essential for enhancing occupant satisfaction and boosting property value, particularly in mixed-use developments. These features contribute to a sense of community, encourage outdoor living, and create appealing spaces for relaxation and socializing. Thoughtful outdoor designs can also enhance curb appeal, making properties more attractive to prospective tenants while fostering tenant retention by offering versatile and enjoyable communal spaces.
Winter presents an ideal time for planning and installing these amenities. Contractors are typically more available during this season, and material costs may be lower due to reduced demand. Moreover, incorporating adaptable designs ensures year-round usability, even in colder climates. Such features align with trends emphasizing flexibility and year-round functionality, making them especially appealing to modern tenants seeking convenience and comfort in their outdoor spaces
Eco-friendly snow removal gained significant traction in 2024 as facility managers increasingly adopted sustainable practices. Brine solutions emerged as a popular choice, effectively reducing salt usage while maintaining safety on walkways and parking lots. Electric snow removal equipment became a valuable tool for lowering carbon footprints, offering an efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional methods. Site-specific planning also played a critical role in avoiding over-salting and minimizing damage to hardscapes and plants, protecting both the environment and property investments. Looking ahead to 2025, partnering with contractors who prioritize sustainability while ensuring reliable service will be essential for maintaining tenant satisfaction and meeting regulatory expectations.
Extreme weather events have underscored the importance of robust contingency plans for facility managers to maintain safety and minimize disruptions. Strategies like maintaining on-site salt storage allow for immediate responses during snowstorms, ensuring walkways and parking areas remain safe. Backup power systems for outdoor lighting and heating help sustain tenant comfort during outages caused by severe weather.
Flexible service contracts with emergency response clauses add an extra layer of preparedness, enabling quick adaptations to unexpected conditions. Partnering with contractors who provide 24/7 support further mitigates risks, ensuring tenant safety and the property’s operational continuity during challenging weather events.
By combining strategic investments, sustainable practices, and proactive maintenance, facility managers can stay ahead of challenges and create properties that thrive year-round. Reflecting on the successes and missteps of 2024 offers a roadmap for smarter decisions in the months ahead.
Tom Marsan is a certified snow professional who has been in the landscaping and snow removal industry for about two decades. He is an active member of ILCA and SIMA and is currently the general manager at Beverly Companies in Chicagoland.
