Seasons can change rather quickly, so it's best to be prepared ahead of time. Think how much happier you`ll be with your lawn mower ready go when the first tall green grass hits in the spring, instead of standing in line at lawn mower repair shop.  The best way to be ready to go is to get prepared well ahead of time.

Here is a yearly checklist for lawn and garden preparation.

January and February - - get ready for spring:

• Check lawn-motor blade, get it sharpened if needed (don't wait until spring, repair shops could be very busy)
• Check outdoor extension cords, replace if nicked or damaged
• Purchase extra line for weed trimmer

Spring - - get ready for summer

• Once the danger of freeze has passed, turn on home sprinkler systems
• If you have gasoline powered equipment, don't forget fresh gas
• Keep mowing height high during the grass growing season

Summer - - get ready for autumn

• Check leaf-blowers for proper operation
• If you have electric leaf-blower, check your extension cords for damage, and replace if needed
• Purchase fall supplies such as leaf bags & rakes

Fall - - get ready for winter

• Last mowing of the fall should be a little shorter height
• Winterize lawn mower (run the mower until the gas-tank is dry, if mower is stored inside the house for the winter - or else add a fuel stabilizer if mower is stored out in a shed or garage.  Also, change the oil if your mower has oil crankcase, clean underside of mower, and change air filter)
• If it's been a several years, consider taking your mower in for a tune-up
• Turn off home sprinkler / irrigation system, and drain if needed
• Purchase snow clearing supplies (salt, sand, shovel)
• Check snow-blower if needed  (consider purchasing extra shear pins)

Story Image: This John Deere riding mower continues to hum along. (Wikimedia Commons)