1. Go green: Lawns tend to get greener after August when the nights get cooler. It’s also a great time to seed and fertilize your lawn if there are any bare spots or the grass is thin.

2. Add color: Plant mums or other colorful plants that will thrive in the fall. This will give your landscape color and vibrancy when everything starts to fade from the summer.

3. Details matter: Trim shrubs and trees on your landscape. Make sure things look sharp and neat.

4. Keep it clean: Tidy up your yard; put away hoses or superfluous lawn ornaments. Change over the general theme (if you have one) to an earthier, fall tone.

5. Preserve wildlife: Attract a little friendly wildlife to your lawn by putting out a birdfeeder.

6. Sparkle and shine: Wash your windows and your screens. As fall arrives, the arc of the sun changes and it’s easier to see dirt on windows; removing screens entirely will also help keep a clean, clear view through the windows.

7. The time is right: Make sure you adjust any automatic timers. As days begin to shorten, ensure automatic lights along the house or walkways come on when it starts to get dark.