rake 'em or leave 'em

Raking up leaves is an option for all of our customers. For some people it makes sense to leave the leaves as mulch. It comes down to personal preference. Leaves can act as a natural mulch and barrier for the garden beds, but doesn’t provide the clean look some people want for their gardens. Detailed below are the benefits of raking them up and leaving them.

raking leaves up

Leaf and debris cleanup can help to maintain a healthy garden for several reasons:

Prevents Disease: Fallen leaves and plant debris can harbor fungal spores, bacteria, and pests that may spread disease to your plants. By removing this debris, you reduce the risk of plant infections that can weaken or kill your garden's vegetation.

Improves Air Circulation: A buildup of leaves and organic material can block airflow around plants, creating a damp, stagnant environment that promotes mold and mildew growth. Proper cleanup helps maintain healthy airflow, reducing the risk of fungal growth and promoting plant vitality.

Reduces Pests: Decaying plant matter is a perfect hiding place for insects, rodents, and other pests. These creatures can damage your plants, either by feeding on them directly or by acting as carriers for harmful diseases. Cleaning up debris reduces these habitats and helps prevent pest infestations.

Prevents Soil Imbalance: While some organic matter is beneficial for soil health, a thick layer of decomposing leaves can create an imbalanced environment. It can smother the soil and prevent sunlight from reaching your plants’ roots. Removing excessive debris ensures that the soil remains well-aerated and that plant roots can access essential nutrients.

Encourages Growth: By clearing debris, you also expose your garden to more sunlight, which is critical for photosynthesis and overall plant growth. Without excess debris blocking the light, your plants have a better chance of thriving.

Aesthetic Appeal: A clean, well-maintained garden is more visually appealing and easier to manage. Regular debris cleanup prevents the garden from becoming cluttered and encourages a more inviting, orderly space.

​Overall, regular leaf and debris cleanup helps maintain a healthy, thriving garden by reducing risks and promoting optimal conditions for plant growth.

leaving leaves in the garden​

Natural Soil Enrichment – Leaves break down over time, adding organic matter and essential nutrients to the soil.

Moisture Retention – A leaf mulch layer reduces evaporation, keeping the soil moist for longer.

Weed Suppression – A thick layer of leaves blocks sunlight, preventing weeds from sprouting.

Temperature Regulation – Leaves insulate the soil, keeping it cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

Supports Beneficial Organisms – Leaves provide habitat for earthworms and microbes that improve soil health.

Prevents Soil Erosion – Leaves act as a protective barrier, reducing the impact of rain and wind erosion.

​Eco-Friendly & Cost-Free – Instead of raking and disposing of leaves, repurposing them as mulch saves time, money, and benefits the environment.