We are all set to leave. My landlord calls me and tells me that they are going to deduct the cost to buy straw and for other landscaping purposes from my security deposit.. Keep in mind, I have kept the grass cut and the yard in nice condition, but I was never told that I had to anything other than that. I live in NC. Can they do this to me?

Read the exact wording in your lease. Typically they can take deductions to restore the property to the condition it was in when you took possession, less normal wear and tear. If nothing is "worse" than it was when you moved in take pictures to document the conditions. You can notify them that you expect to receive a full refund of your security deposit, as the conditions are the same as when you took possession of the property and you have pictures to prove it. The unfortunate thing is THEY are in possession of your deposit. If they don't return what you feel is fair, then you can sue them in small claims court for whatever you feel you are entitled to.

As long as you are returning the property in the same or better condition than when you started the term, and as long as your lease does not require that you do anything else to the landscaping other than maintain the property, then the landlord cannot deduct anything from your deposit.

Take pictures. Many, many pictures. If the landlord tries to deduct anything then file a lawsuit.