Should you rake leaves or leave them? A Nova Scotia fall cleanup guide
Protect the lawn, leave room for wildlife and decide which fall cleanup tasks matter most at your property.
Read the guidePRACTICAL ADVICE FOR HOMEOWNERS
Home & Property Tips
Straightforward guides for looking after your home and yard in Nova Scotia, from Valley Labour in Annapolis Royal. Browse by topic and find the advice you need.
Seasonal cleanups
Practical seasonal tasks, sensible timing and ways to keep the work manageable.
Garden & lawn care
Plant choices, garden-bed care and practical ways to protect the spaces you enjoy.
Which perennials should you cut back in fall—and which should you leave?
Know what to cut, what to leave and where to put the pruners—with a quick reference for 15 familiar perennials and clear cutting diagrams.
Read the guide
How to keep deer out of your garden in Nova Scotia: what actually helps
Compare barriers, repellents and less-palatable plants, with realistic steps for protecting the garden you enjoy.
Read the guideWaste, Recycling & Reuse
Start with the household sorting guide, then explore recycling, compost, donations and disposal trips.
START HERE · 5-MINUTE READ
How to sort recycling, garbage and compost in Nova Scotia
A practical guide to recycling, garbage, compost and special drop-offs.
Open the sorting guide →
Gutters & drainage
Cleaning schedules, drainage checks and practical gutter care.
How often should you clean your gutters in Nova Scotia?
Build a practical spring-and-fall routine, spot drainage concerns from the ground and decide when your home needs another check.
Read the guideFirewood & moving help
Planning for stacking, carrying and heavy lifting.
How much space does a cord of firewood take up?
Plan your storage space, measure separate rows and understand what a cord means—with diagrams and a simple firewood calculator.
Read the guideLooking for help with the work?
See our property services or browse before-and-after projects. We serve Annapolis Royal and nearby communities; you’re welcome to use these guides wherever you live, adapting them to your own property and local conditions.