Advice from the pros on whether to rake up autumn leaves for a healthier lawn in the fall season
In the autumn season, leaves blanket the lawn, raising a common question among gardeners - should they be removed or left to mulch? While debris left to pile up can create humid and smothered conditions, ideal for lawn diseases to thrive in, allowing leaves to remain on the lawn can be beneficial. They act as a natural mulch, helping retain moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. However, a light, even coverage of debris is necessary to make sure you're not encouraging humid conditions that allow lawn diseases and patchy re-growth to occur. Julian Palphramand, Head of Plants at British Garden Centres, advises raking leaves off lawns during autumn to prevent thick layers from smothering grass, blocking light, and trapping moisture. This method works best on early growth plants or plants that are sensitive to extreme temperature changes, such as hydrangeas or roses. For those who prefer a more hands-off approach, leaving fallen leaves can provide benefits. A light layer of fallen leaves can be used as mulch, providing a small nitrogen boost to the soil, helping the lawn retain its color throughout winter dormancy. Fallen leaves can also be used as mulch on flower beds and borders to help retain moisture and provide an added boost of nitrogen over winter. To rake leaves easily, use a lightweight leaf rake with wide, flexible, fan-shaped tines that collect leaves without damaging the grass. Chrissie Handley, Lawn Care Specialist & Gardening Expert at Online Turf, agrees that raking lawns regularly in the fall helps maintain airflow and sunlight, essential for healthy grass growth. However, it's important to rake with care. Vertikutieren (vertilicating) should be done with caution, maximally twice a year, and not too intensively in the autumn to avoid damaging the grass. On the other hand, leaving leaves in certain contexts, such as around trees or sturdy plants, can offer protection against frost and serve as a habitat for beneficial insects and pollinators. Leaf mulch should not be used after heavy rainfall, as thick, clumped layers of debris can block airflow to the lawn. Leaves decomposition enriches the soil by returning nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fallen leaves can also be added to the compost bin for use next year. Clearing away leaves reduces the risk of rodents and ticks settling within and calling the lawn home. Furthermore, leaves create habitat for beneficial insects and pollinators, which support birds and other wildlife. In conclusion, the decision to rake leaves or let them mulch depends on various factors, including the type of plants, weather conditions, and personal preference. By understanding the benefits and potential drawbacks, gardeners can make an informed decision to keep their lawns healthy and thriving throughout the autumn season.
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