With temperatures plummeting and snow blanketing the Fox Valley, keeping your walkways and driveway safe from treacherous ice and snow becomes a winter warrior's mission. But fear not, neighbors! Wildflower Landscapers is here to equip you with the ultimate arsenal of winter landscaping tips to ensure your steps stay steady and your driveway drivable all season long:

Prepping for Battle:

• Shovel Early & Often: Don't wait for a blizzard! Tackle snowfall before it packs down and turns into icy foes. Regular clearing prevents dangerous buildup and makes future shoveling easier.
• SNOW SHOVELING PERSON HAPPY
• Invest in Quality Tools: A sturdy shovel, sturdy boots with good traction, and ice melt are your trusty winter allies. Opt for ergonomic shovels that save your back, and choose boots with aggressive treads for confident steps on slippery surfaces.

Salt of the Earth (but wisely):

• Choose Your Weapon:
• Rock salt is a classic, melting ice effectively, but it can harm your plants and concrete over time. (only works down to +20F)
• Consider magnesium chloride as a middle ground option, but also may affect landscaped/hardacpe surfaces. (Works down to 0F)
• Calcium chloride works at lower temperatures and is gentler on landscaping, but can be more expensive. (works down to -20F)
• Target Your Attack: Sprinkle ice melt sparingly on walkways and driveways, focusing on high-traffic areas like steps, ramps, and curves. Overuse can be corrosive and pollute local waterways.

Beyond the Basics: (Below -20F)

• Embrace Sand Power: Sand provides traction on top of existing ice and snow, making walkways safer. Opt for coarse sand that won't blow away easily.
• SAND IS YOUR BEST OPTION IN THE LATEST LOWEST FORECASTED TEMPURATES BELOW -20F
• Get Creative with Natural Solutions: Coffee grounds or ashes from your fireplace can offer temporary traction on icy patches while being gentle on your landscaping.

Remember:

• Safety First: Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling ice melt or shoveling snow. Take breaks to avoid overexertion, especially in extreme cold.
• Plan Ahead: Stay informed about upcoming weather forecasts and prepare your winter arsenal before the next snowfall hits.
• Call in the Pros: If the icy battles seem overwhelming, don't hesitate to reach out to Wildflower Landscapers! We offer professional snow removal and ice melt application services to help you keep your Fox Valley home safe and accessible all winter long.



Stay safe, stay warm, and conquer the cold with Wildflower Landscapers! We're here to help you navigate the frosty trails of winter. ❄️ #WildflowerLandscapers #WinterFoxValley

Bonus Tip: Check out our previous blog post for essential tips on staying warm and cozy during extreme cold and wind chills!