The extreme winter throughout much of the country will undoubtedly delay the green season. There is talk in some areas that the mountains of snow won't be completely gone until June. Wherever you do business, there are steps to take to be ready to roll, whenever that might be.
Photo Credit: Super Lawn Trucks

Prep Hand Tools
Clean off rust by scrubbing with steel wool dipped in white vinegar. For heavy rust, a hand drill with a wire brush attachment may be required.

Sharpen blades with a tool-sharpening file drawn across the edges at a 45-degree angle. Securely clamp the tool in place before sharpening.

Sand down rough and splintery portions of wooden handles with fine-grit sandpaper.

Repair worn-out handle grips with rubberized tape, foam tape or bicycle grips.

Service Power Equipment
If you didn't add fuel system stabilizer when you stored the equipment, empty tanks of old gas since evaporation, oxidation and condensation can have made the gas "bad."

Replace or clean air filters and clean air intakes.

Inspect the spark plugs. Replace if they are heavily fouled. Otherwise clean them with a spray carburetor cleaner and a stiff wire brush, wiping dry with a clean rag. Make sure the gaps are up to spec. Before reinserting, spray penetrating, lubricating oil into the cylinder and pull the starter rope five to six times to distribute the oil throughout the cylinder.

Sharpen any blades or have them sharpened at a shop.

Make all adjustments to manufacturers' specifications.

Tighten all nuts and bolts and connections.

If equipment continues to sit unused, start engines with fresh gas periodically.

For any needed shop repairs, get them done sooner than later as shops tend to get busy with homeowner repairs after the season starts.

Get Ready for Winter Weather Repairs
You clients' beds, retaining walls, pavers and more may need major attention because of the extremity of this winter. Be prepared to identify and quickly mend the damage.