What to do when the leaves fall
Autumn is a beautiful time of year, as leaves change from green to shades of red and gold, colouring the landscape. However, while visually stunning, fallen leaves tend to accumulate on garden beds, borders, paths, driveways, and gutters, and can smother your lawn under a dense carpet.
How to collect fallen leaves
Leaf rake – simple but effective, a leaf rake is an essential tool. Choose a sturdy rake with a slightly curved head and stiff tines to make a collection easier.
Grass – keep gras clippings, as they’re useful for collecting leaves as they fall. This method helps keep the leaves fresh and prevents them from becoming soggy. However, be cautious, as excessive buildup can make the lawn more susceptible to moss and disease.
Rotary or ride-on mower – avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height. A rotary mower is especially effective, as it chops the leaves and mixes them with grass clippings, aiding faster decomposition.
What to do with fallen leaves
Instead of disposing them in your green bin, compost your leaves to make a nutrient-rich mulch and soil improver. Read Vitax’s full article on composting fallen leaves to learn more about this garden tip.