7. maintenance: all landscapes require some degree of care during the year. turf requires spring and fall aeration along with regular fertilization every 6 to 8 weeks. it should be cut to a height of 3 inches, allowing the clippings to fall. trees, shrubs and perennials will need occasional pruning to remove dead stems, promote blooming or control height and spread. much of the removed plant material can be shredded and used in composting piles.