An experienced handyman is the best contractor who cleans up the leaves in the fall! They will handle this task that many homeowners find dull and tiring in the most practical and effective way. Do not skip fall leaves management this season!
The article below explores what kind of contractors can be hired to clean up leaves when you need to do it, how to manage them, and the consequences of ignoring this important autumn task. Start reading and discover more!
Should You Skip Fall Leaf Clean-Up?
You should not skip fall leaf clean-up. Some people claim that removing leaves in excess during lawn treatment in the fall can be harmful to the ecosystem of the yard, as fallen leaves create the perfect environment for some animals to thrive.
However, most homeowners want a clean-looking and healthy lawn and wish to avoid the presence of too many insects, which is why removing leaves is a common step in autumn gardening.
The ideal strategy is to find a middle ground. Continue reading to learn different methods of managing leaves in the fall and keeping your lawn green and healthy!
How Do You Manage Leaves In The Fall? 8 Tips!
The best form of cleaning up fall leaves is to mulch with a mower, rake, compost, create leaf mold, use a leaf blower, bag leaves, spread as mulch, and leave in natural areas. Read the detailed instructions in the list below to know how to handle this fall home maintenance task!
1. Mulching Leaves With A Mower
If you have a mulching mower or a regular lawnmower with a mulching blade, use it to chop leaves into small pieces. The small leaf pieces stay on the lawn and decompose quickly to add nutrients to the soil. This low-effort strategy benefits your lawn by providing natural fertilizer. It also reduces waste and the need for bagging leaves.
2. Raking And Collecting Leaves
Manually rake leaves into piles, then bag or move them to a designated compost area. This traditional method is effective in keeping your lawn clear, which can help prevent mold and pest problems.
3. Composting Leaves
Collect leaves and add them to a compost bin or pile by mixing them with organic materials such as vegetable scraps, grass clippings, and coffee grounds. Turn the pile occasionally to speed up decomposition. Composting turns leaves into rich organic matter that you can use in your garden. It is environmentally friendly and reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers.
4. Creating Leaf Mold
Collect leaves in a pile in the corner of your yard, letting them decompose slowly over time (typically six months to a year). Leaf mold differs from compost; it is a simple process where leaves break down into a dark, crumbly material, which improves soil structure water retention and provides a slow-release source of nutrients.
5. Using A Leaf Blower
A leaf blower can quickly gather leaves into piles for collection or mulching. Some blowers have a vacuum function that also shreds the leaves. Leaf blowers are fast and effective for large yards or areas with many trees. They can make the job easier and quicker, especially if you have a lot of ground to cover.
6. Bagging Leaves For Collection
After raking or blowing leaves into piles, bag them for municipal leaf collection or take them to a local yard waste recycling center. Bagging leaves keeps your yard tidy and is often required in areas with curbside leaf collection programs.
7. Spreading Leaves As Garden Mulch
Apply a layer of leaves directly to your garden beds or under trees and shrubs. You can shred them first to speed up decomposition. Leaves act as natural mulch, suppressing weeds, retaining soil moisture, and insulating plant roots during winter.
8. Leaving Leaves In Natural Areas
You can leave the leaves where they fall in more natural parts of your yard, such as under trees in wooded areas. It mimics the natural forest floor and benefits wildlife. It is low-maintenance and supports local ecosystems, providing habitat for insects and birds.
When Should You Clean Up Fallen Leaves?
You should start cleaning up fallen leaves early to mid-fall, depending on when they accumulate in your yard. During peak fall, clean up leaves every 1-2 weeks to prevent them from smothering your lawn, causing mold, or attracting pests.
Who To Call For Clean Leaves In My House?
Call a handyman for leaf clean-up at your house. Handymen often offer yard work services, including raking and removing leaves, and can be a convenient and affordable option for keeping your yard tidy.
More than a handyman, you should call eHARDHATs handyman services! They are the ones who clean up the leaves in the fall and leave your home's exterior looking neat and in balance with nature.
