As the days grow shorter and the leaves begin to turn, September is the perfect time to focus on maintaining your home, caring for your lawn, and enjoying local businesses and events in the community. Here’s a quick roundup of tips, spotlights, and activities to help you make the most of this beautiful season!

?? Fall Home Maintenance Tips

Fall is an essential time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. Here are some maintenance tasks to check off your list:

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters: Clear out leaves and debris to prevent water damage and ice dams. Consider installing gutter guards to keep them cleaner longer.
2. Check Your Roof: Look for loose or missing shingles and address any damage to prevent leaks during winter storms.
3. Seal Gaps and Cracks: Ensure windows and doors are properly sealed to keep your home warm and energy-efficient. Weatherstripping and caulking can make a big difference!
4. Service Your Furnace: Schedule a professional inspection and change the air filter to ensure your heating system is running efficiently.
5. Prepare Your Chimney: If you have a fireplace, make sure it’s cleaned and inspected by a professional before lighting it up for the season.

?? Lawn Care for September

As we transition into fall, your lawn needs special attention to remain healthy and vibrant:

1. Aerate the Soil: Aeration allows water, nutrients, and oxygen to reach the grass roots more effectively, helping your lawn recover from summer stress.
2. Overseed Your Lawn: Early fall is the perfect time to overseed your lawn to fill in bare spots and thicken grass coverage.
3. Fertilize: Apply a slow-release fertilizer to nourish your grass and help it store nutrients for the winter months.
4. Mow Strategically: Continue mowing, but gradually lower the cutting height as the season progresses to reduce the risk of disease.
5. Rake Regularly: Keep fallen leaves off your lawn to prevent them from smothering the grass and causing mold or disease.

?? Local Spotlight: Country Critters Pet Grooming

This month, we’re shining a spotlight on Country Critters Pet Grooming, a beloved local business dedicated to keeping your furry friends looking and feeling their best! Located right in the heart of our community, Country Critters offers a range of grooming services, from basic baths and nail trims to full grooming packages.

Whether your pet needs a quick clean-up or a full pampering session, the experienced and friendly team at Country Critters is ready to help. Their gentle approach ensures a stress-free experience for your pet, making grooming a positive part of their routine.

Check them out and support local by booking an appointment today!

?? Location: Country Critters Pet Grooming, St. Johns, MI
?? Contact: (Phone number)
?? Hours: Monday - Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM

?? Local Entertainment: What’s Happening This Month

Looking for something fun to do this September? Here are some great events happening around town:

1. Michigan BluesFest - September 18-21 in Old Town Lansing: Enjoy a weekend filled with blues music, food, and local vendors.
2. St. Johns Fall Festival Arts and Crafts Fair - September 21-22 at Uncle John's Cider Mill: A fun weekend featuring local arts, crafts, and delicious treats.
3. Symphony Orchestra: The Triumph of Freedom - September 27 at Wharton Center, East Lansing: Experience a night of beautiful music performed by talented musicians.

These events are a fantastic way to get out, support local artists, and connect with your community!