This is a common question we get from our lawn care clients. Are fallen leaves harmful for your lawn? From our experience, fallen leaves on your lawn can be beneficial, but it all depends on how you deal with the situation.
Should I Just Leave My Fallen Leaves?
Ok, we understand that raking your leaves can be a little daunting, especially if you have a large bed of fallen leaves. Generally, it is okay to leave your fallen leaves on your lawn, as long as, it is not so much that your grass is suffocating. There are alternatives to leaving the fallen leaves unattended on your lawn as well. If you don’t want to rake your leaves or you don’t want to leave them all over, then consider the following methods.
- Mulching
- Composting
3 (Remarkable) Benefits of Mulching Your Fallen Leaves
According to a study done by Michigan State University, mulching your fallen leaves is super beneficial for your lawn. By mulching your leaves with a lawn mower several times, you will be providing nutrients ( food ) to earthworms and microorganisms. These earthworms help decompose the leaves and turn it into plant-friendly organic matter. Mulching your leaves also helps protect your soil against the colder winter temperatures. Another benefit that most don’t know about mulching is that it provides a much needed boost to your lawn in order to fight of weeds and disease.
Should I Be Composting My Fallen Leaves?
Composting is another alternative to raking your fallen leaves. However, composting requires a little more effort to reap the benefits. For one, you cannot just rake up your leaves into piles and expect them to begin decomposing. Composting requires regular mixing and turning of your leaves, as well as, moisture. If you want to compost your leaves, remember that you are doing good for the environment. According to a report by EPA, fallen leaves produce harmful gases when not decomposed properly in landfills.
Recommended Reading
- Do I Need To Hire A Professional Lawn Care Service?
- Checklist: Make Spring Cleaning A Breeze
- Why Professional Lawn Care Services Can Be the Right Option for Commercial Properties
Final Thoughts On Your Fallen Leaves
So the question remains, should you leave your fallen leaves on your lawn? It is not harmful if you do and can actually be beneficial in many ways. However, you will need to either mulch your leaves or begin composting. A regular lawn maintenance program is also beneficial to ensure your lawn is prepared for the winter months and ready for the growing season during the spring.
Professional Lawn Care & Fall Clean-up Services Toronto
At My Landscapers, we have over 15 years of lawn care experience throughout Toronto and the GTA. Contact us today to learn more about the different treatments we provide for your lawn to ensure it grows healthy and lush. Looking for a price? Request a FREE, no-obligation, detailed estimate from My Landscapers today!
