Leave the Leaves? A Smarter Approach to Fall Cleanup

When fall leaves begin covering the yard, the first instinct is often to rake everything up and haul it away. But fallen leaves can actually be a useful garden resource when they are handled the right way.

At Donaldson’s Greenhouse & Nursery in Hackettstown, NJ, fall cleanup does not have to mean removing every leaf from the landscape. A more thoughtful approach can benefit garden beds, lawns and even local wildlife.

When Should Leaves Be Removed?

Some areas should stay relatively clear.

Thick layers of wet leaves can mat down and block light and air from reaching turf. If leaves are completely covering the lawn, rake them up or mulch them with a mower before they become a heavy layer.

Leaves should also be cleared from walkways, steps, driveways and other areas where they could become slippery.

Mulch Leaves Into the Lawn

If the layer of leaves is light, mowing over them can be an easy alternative to raking.

A mower can shred leaves into smaller pieces that settle between the blades of grass and gradually break down. The goal is to chop them finely enough that they are not forming a thick mat over the lawn.

This can save cleanup time while allowing some of that organic material to remain on the property.

Use Fallen Leaves in Garden Beds

Leaves can be especially useful around trees, shrubs and perennials.

A light layer of shredded leaves can help cover bare soil and gradually add organic matter as it decomposes. Naturalized areas are another good place to leave some leaves rather than removing them completely.

Avoid piling leaves heavily against plant crowns, tree trunks or shrub stems.

Leave Some Leaves for Wildlife

Not every corner of the landscape needs to look perfectly clean.

Leaf litter can provide shelter and overwintering habitat for insects and other small wildlife. Leaving some leaves beneath shrubs, along woodland edges or in less formal parts of the garden can help support a more wildlife-friendly landscape.

What About Diseased Leaves?

Not all leaves belong in the garden.

If leaves are associated with a known plant disease or serious pest problem, removing them may help reduce the amount of infected material left around the plant.

When in doubt, keep healthy leaves separate from questionable plant debris.

Think Before You Bag Everything

Fall cleanup can be about balance.

Clear heavy leaf cover where it can cause problems, mulch leaves where appropriate and leave some in garden beds and natural areas. Instead of treating every fallen leaf as waste, think of it as another resource from the garden.

Fall Leaf Cleanup FAQs

Should I remove all leaves from my lawn?
Heavy layers should be removed or shredded so they do not smother the grass.

Can I mow over fallen leaves?
Yes. Light layers can often be chopped into smaller pieces with a mower and left to break down.

Are leaves good for garden beds?
A light layer of shredded leaves can help cover soil and add organic matter as it decomposes.

Should I leave leaves for wildlife?
Leaving some leaves in garden beds and naturalized areas can provide habitat for beneficial insects and other small wildlife.

Should diseased leaves be removed?
Yes. Leaves from plants with known disease problems are generally better removed rather than reused around the garden.

Visit Donaldson’s Greenhouse & Nursery

Have questions about fall cleanup or getting your landscape ready for winter? Stop by Donaldson’s Greenhouse & Nursery in Hackettstown, NJ and let us help you make the most of the season.

Donaldson’s Greenhouse & Nursery
178 Airport Road
Hackettstown, NJ 07840
(908) 852-7314

Current Hours:
Monday through Saturday: 8 AM to 6 PM
Sunday: 9 AM to 5 PM