The colors of fall are beautiful, but once those leaves come off the trees, it means major clean-up for homeowners. First, we’ll talk about the importance of raking. Then we’ll share pointers for raking leaves that should make the job easier.
Is Raking Really Necessary?
Well, your yard looks much better when it’s nice and clean.
Some leaves are OK to mulch with a mower and leave on your lawn, but if leaves cover more than 20% of your lawn, clear them out. Leaving them could smother your lawn – or leave it susceptible to snow mold diseases.
6 Ways to Make Raking Easier
- Get the right equipment. Leaf blowers, used on low, can help collect bulk leaves
- Follow up with the right rake — you need a leaf rake that is wide with durable tines
- Hold the rake properly, evenly distributing your grip
- Wear gloves and a dust mask if needed
- Use a 10-by-10 tarp, or a piece of plastic to gather the leaves; this helps you easily move them across the yard
- Clear leaves from gutters, downspouts, surface drains and the roof
The Best Way to Dispose of Leaves
You have three simple options to get rid of leaves:
1. Compost them. Turn the pile of leaves once a week with a pitchfork to introduce oxygen, and keep it covered with plastic to hold in moisture and heat
2. Mulch them. Shred leaves with a string trimmer in a garbage can; spread them in landscape beds
3. Bag them. Here are easy ways to do so:
- Use a garbage can. Cut the center out of the lid, insert the bag, and place the lid on top to keep the bag in place
- Use a snow shovel for scooping – this offers more surface area and it’s more efficient
- Drill holes in the trash can to prevent suction when removing full bags
