Peak foliage is passed, and leaves will be falling in droves before you know it. Before you go out to rake up those leaves and bag them, you’ll want to read this. So, what should you do with all those leaves? You have a few options.
If you have a large property, you might be able to rake leaves to a far corner and allow them to decompose, and provide shelter for beneficial insects. Those insects become winter food for hungry birds.
You can also rake leaves into garden beds to protect new plantings. The leaves act as mulch over the winter. Or you might want to rake the front yard but leave the backyard to go natural.
The Chesapeake Bay Foundation says you shouldn’t rake at all – too much yard waste ends up in landfills across the country. That brings us to Option #2.
Related Reading: Fall Landscaping Checklist
Whether you have a riding mower or a self-propelled mower, using the mulching function is an easy way to shred leaves so they don’t form a blanket that chokes out your grass. By shredding them, you allow the leaves to provide nitrogen and organic matter for your winter grass.
Mow once a week until the majority of the leaves have dropped. Your lawn will thank you.
If you don’t want to use leaves for mulch or use your mulching mower, a final option for leaf disposal is to let your city or county handle leaf collection/disposal. To be environmentally friendly and get some exercise, rake instead of using a leaf blower. Make it a family affair and get the kids out there to help.
Some municipalities pick up leaves with regular yard waste, while others have you rake them to the curb and a special leaf vacuum truck will come by. Here are some useful links to help you see what you need to do to make that happen.Â
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Do be sure to remove piles of leaves that blow onto your patio and walkways because they can stain those areas. If leaves are wet, they can be very slippery as well. Add these leaves to your garden beds or natural area if the leaf collection is already done for the year.
Take a good look at your yard and outdoor living spaces while you’re out there figuring out what to do with all those leaves. Is it looking worse for wear? Do you wish you had a pool or outdoor kitchen like the neighbors down the street? Wish no more.
We’re in the business of turning your outdoor living dreams into reality. We are now setting design consultation appointments for 2023. Check out our Portfolio for examples of our work, and to gain inspiration.
We work with homeowners throughout the Capital Region, including Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C.Â
