With fall comes sweater weather, beautifully coloured leaves, cooler temperatures, and for many — time to close the cottage for winter.

You probably have a checklist that may include things like checking the sump pump, shutting off the main water supply and draining water from appliances, but below are a few more tips to include on your list!

  • If you have a septic system, make sure it is working properly.
  • Some people use antifreeze to further winterize their plumbing. Do not use regular automotive anti-freeze in toilets and pipes as this is toxic and can be harmful to your lake and septic system. Plumber’s antifreeze (propylene glycol) is non-toxic and is meant for plumbing systems. There are other environmentally friendly products on the market as well.
  • Clean out the fridge and cupboards. Pack up all food items (even canned food) so not to attract mice and other animals. And don’t forget to clean your BBQ or outside griddle, oven and even your toaster.
  • Walk around the outside of your cottage keeping an eye out for any openings animals could use to get inside. If any openings are found, make sure to do the proper animal proofing. Make sure your chimney has a chimney cover or cap on it.
  • Early fall, when the leaves start to change colour, is a good time to plant coniferous trees such as pine, cedar and spruce. You can also wait until late spring once the soil warms up.
  • Leave stalks of sunflowers, rudbeckias, asters and goldenrod standing for birds to enjoy the seeds.
  • Fruit trees, cedars and other evergreens, as well as young trees, should be wrapped in burlap to help minimize damage from wind and grazing animals.
  • Leaves make excellent mulch around trees, and they can provide a safe, warm space for hibernating critters. Spread a carpet of leaves under trees to form a protective layer but be sure not to mulch right up to the trunk of the tree – this retains moisture and encourages disease.
  • Over the winter, start planning how you’d like to expand your shoreline buffer or how you’d like to incorporate more wildlife friendly gardens on your shoreline property. There are beautiful native plants that will provide many benefits to nearby wildlife including pollinators, birds, mammals, amphibians, even fish!

When your checklist is complete may your memories of your cottage season get you through the winter as your countdown for next cottage season begins!

Learn more about how to care for your cottage with wildlife in mind  >