Why you should leave the leaves!

As the leaves come down from the trees and land on our flower beds and lawns alike we instinctually reach for rakes and leaf blowers to clear them off as quick as possible! However, to truly support your plants year round, it’s much better to leave fallen leaves, branches, stems, and seed heads where they are rather than raking, blowing, shredding, or cutting them away. Leaves and other organic matter insulate plant roots through the cold winter months and then decompose to build up the living soil critical to healthy vegetation.

Using leaves as mulch is a free alternative to buying bark mulch. The space under a tree is an especially critical place to keep leaves since many butterfly and moth caterpillars drop down from trees into the leaf litter to pupate and overwinter. When spring comes and the soils begins to warm again the leaves stop the newly sprouting weeds from coming up while also acting as a natural boost for your plants as they break down and organic matter back into the soil which is often heavily depleted.

So, as the leaves begin to carpet your garden, think twice before you reach for that rake, blower, or disposal bag. By doing so, you can reduce your environmental impact, enrich your garden's soil naturally, and provide vital habitat for a wide range of species. Plus, you'll have more time to savour the beautiful Autumn season and appreciate the incredible biodiversity right outside your door.