A large property needs a plan, not a list of chores. The calendar below breaks the year into manageable monthly priorities. This month-by-month estate care calendar is written for the Northeast, where winter dominates the schedule. Warmer regions can shift the timing earlier, but the order of work is the same.
Use it to set a rhythm, assign responsibility and prevent the usual surprises: a missed pruning window, an unprotected pipe, a failed drain.
How to use this calendar
Timing varies with weather, so treat each month as a guide. Keep a running record of dates, products, repairs and who did the work. If several trades are involved, one person or team should coordinate. This is the logic behind full estate management, where a single point of contact schedules the work.
Winter: January to March
January
- Manage snow and ice per your snow removal plan.
- Check for ice dams, roof loads and blocked drains.
- Review last year’s records and set the budget.
February
- Prune dormant trees and large shrubs where appropriate.
- Order mulch, seed and materials.
- Service mowers and equipment.
March
- Inspect for storm damage to trees, fences and structures.
- Plan spring projects such as patios, walls and plantings.
- Start clearing debris once the ground firms up.
Spring: April to June
April
- Complete spring cleanup (see the North Shore spring cleanup checklist).
- Rake and repair lawns, and test soil.
- Restart irrigation and check for leaks.
- Inspect hardscape for frost damage.
May
- Mulch beds and refresh edging.
- Plant annuals and perennials after frost risk passes.
- Begin regular mowing, and prune spring bloomers after flowering.
- Inspect and maintain the deck (see deck maintenance after a New England winter).
June
- Monitor for pests and disease on trees and roses.
- Adjust irrigation as heat builds.
- Schedule exterior painting and repairs.
Summer: July to September
July
- Water deeply during dry spells, and raise mowing height.
- Deadhead and tidy beds.
- Watch for stress in mature trees.
August
- Plan fall renovation: aeration, overseeding and tree planting.
- Inspect roofs, gutters and siding before the busy season.
- Order bulbs.
September
- Aerate and overseed (see when to aerate and overseed a Massachusetts lawn).
- Plant trees and shrubs.
- Divide perennials.
Fall: October to December
October
- Begin leaf removal and fall cleanup (see fall cleanup before first frost).
- Mark driveways and beds for plowing.
- Clean gutters.
November
- Shut down and drain irrigation.
- Final mow, mulch and winter protection for vulnerable plants.
- Store furniture and equipment.
- Arrange snow service.
December
- Finish any hazard tree work before heavy snow.
- Monitor for snow and ice.
- Review the year, and book winter pruning and spring projects.
Four ongoing habits for any season
- Walk the property monthly. Take notes and photos as you go. Look for changes in trees, drainage, hardscape and structures.
- Keep records. Note dates, photos and costs.
- Act on small problems. A loose stone or a damp spot costs far less to fix early.
- Plan ahead. Book seasonal work before the rush.
Match the calendar to your property
A coastal property needs more attention to salt and wind. A property with mature trees will need regular tree care, which is covered in our tree care and removal service. Properties with extensive gardens benefit from our grounds and garden care service. In the Los Angeles area, the calendar shifts: fall planting, winter rain management, and summer irrigation efficiency drive the schedule.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a different calendar for each property?
Yes, at least in detail. Soil, exposure, plant palette and structures all differ. Start with a template like this one and adjust it after a season.
What should I prioritize if the budget is limited?
Safety and structural items first: trees over structures, drainage, roofs, gutters and walkways. Cosmetic work follows.
Who should coordinate the work?
One accountable person or team, whether it is you, a property manager or a single contractor, so tasks do not fall between trades.
If you want help building a calendar for your property, you can request a consultation.