{"id":122295,"date":"2024-11-11T18:39:56","date_gmt":"2024-11-11T21:39:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/?p=122295"},"modified":"2025-08-29T18:02:37","modified_gmt":"2025-08-29T21:02:37","slug":"is-it-better-to-rake-or-mulch-leaves","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/is-it-better-to-rake-or-mulch-leaves\/","title":{"rendered":"Is It Better to Rake or Mulch Leaves?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Many homeowners are unsure whether it\u2019s better to rake or mulch leaves. The answer depends on your needs and situation. For example, raking leaves creates a tidy yard, while mulching leaves yields natural lawn fertilizer.<\/p>    <p>Additionally, you can rake leaves to prevent pests and fungal diseases. Or mulch leaves to help reduce landfill waste and get free weed control. We\u2019ll discuss the benefits of each. We\u2019ve also asked an expert for insights on both methods to help you make the best choice for your lawn.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-d9c2a60b-cdcd-486e-a3cc-454c0501d621\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\">In this article:<\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/is-it-better-to-rake-or-mulch-leaves\/#0-why-you-should-rake-leaves\" style=\"\">Why You Should Rake Leaves<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/is-it-better-to-rake-or-mulch-leaves\/#7-why-you-should-mulch-leaves\" style=\"\">Why You Should Mulch Leaves<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/is-it-better-to-rake-or-mulch-leaves\/#13-faq-about-raking-or-mulching-leaves\" style=\"\">FAQ About Raking or Mulching Leaves<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"0-why-you-should-rake-leaves\">Why You Should Rake Leaves<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/clearing-leaves.jpeg\" alt=\"Rake with fallen leaves in autumn \" class=\"wp-image-113478\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/clearing-leaves.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/clearing-leaves-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/clearing-leaves-150x100.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/clearing-leaves-768x513.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A rake gathering a pile of yellow autumn leaves on a green lawn. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/rake-with-fallen-leaves-at-autumn\/218851978?asset_id=218851978\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">encierro<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock Free \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/jo\/license-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>Raking does more than give you a workout. It can help keep your grass healthy and ready for winter. Reasons for raking leaves include:<\/p>   <ul style=\"padding-left: 1.1em; text-align: left; --ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px;; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); --ub-list-item-fa-li-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-spacing: 0px; column-count: 1; --ub-list-mobile-column-count: 1; \" class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-list ub_styled_list\" id=\"ub_styled_list-1bc2bb5c-c52b-4d32-9acf-105aa57e1d26\"> <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-984850e4-ad07-4b9a-ab07-0926ab79a519\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><a href=\"#1-some-types-of-leaves-don%E2%80%99t-decompose-well\">Some types of leaves don\u2019t decompose well<\/a><\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-22d68703-4915-4676-9196-74e85d9a2b8b\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><a href=\"#2-too-many-leaves-smother-grass\">Too many leaves smother grass<\/a><\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-94027441-595a-466e-8a29-76745eb8c57d\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><a href=\"#3-helps-prevent-fungal-disease\">Helps prevent fungal disease<\/a><\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-d1418d34-042d-48b1-90a1-2861d3579183\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><a href=\"#4-discourages-pests\">Discourages pests<\/a><\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-0f5faa33-a377-4d68-ba19-6e2ffc8437f3\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><a href=\"#5-creates-a-tidy-and-clean-yard\">Creates a tidy and clean yard<\/a><\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-1a8b0d82-f4b5-4654-b69a-83634d01a1d1\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><a href=\"#6-helps-grow-newly-seeded-grass\">Helps grow newly seeded grass<\/a><\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li> <\/ul>   <p>If your city has a leaf collection program, raking can be a fantastic option for you.<\/p>    <p>\u201cThe leaves can be bagged and placed on the curb for weekly pickup,\u201d says Ryan Bearss, research assistant at Michigan State University.<\/p>    <p><strong>See Related:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/how-to-rake-leaves\/\">How to Rake Leaves<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/best-ways-to-clean-up-leaves-in-your-yard\/\">Best Ways to Clean Up Leaves in Your Yard<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-some-types-of-leaves-don%E2%80%99t-decompose-well\">Some Types of Leaves Don\u2019t Decompose Well<\/h3>    <p>Not all leaves break down easily. Thick or waxy leaves, such as oak and magnolia, contain high levels of tannins and\/or lignins that contribute to their slow decomposition. Thus, they can form a dense mat that blocks water and air from reaching your lawn.<\/p>    <p>Mulching these types of leaves can do more harm than good. So rather than turning thick or waxy leaves into <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/what-is-mulch\/\">mulch<\/a>, you\u2019ll be better off raking them. And if you think it\u2019s a waste to dispose of these leaves, you can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/what-can-you-put-in-compost-bin\/\">add them to your compost bin<\/a> instead.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td>Another option would be to hire a <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=leafRemoval\">LawnStarter leaf removal pro<\/a> for around <strong>$158 per service<\/strong>. Our pros have a proven track record of nearly <strong>12,000 completed jobs last year<\/strong> and a <strong>customer rating of 4.3 stars<\/strong>.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-too-many-leaves-smother-grass\">Too Many Leaves Smother Grass<\/h3>    <p>Even in the fall, your grass still needs sunlight. So, it\u2019s not good to leave your lawn covered with a thick layer of fallen leaves.<\/p>    <p>Apart from depriving grass of sunlight, leaves left on your lawn can create a blanket that traps moisture and prevents the grass from getting the oxygen it needs. This smothering effect can weaken or kill patches of grass even before winter comes.<\/p>    <p>Raking leaves can help you avoid smothering your grass. If your lawn surface is clear of leaves, it will have a better chance of staying healthy through the cold months.<\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-helps-prevent-fungal-disease\">Helps Prevent Fungal Disease<\/h3>    <p>Piles of wet, soggy leaves left to sit too long over your lawn can create the perfect humid environment for fungi to grow and spread, becoming a breeding ground for fungal diseases like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/what-is-snow-mold\/\">snow mold<\/a>. Once that happens, you could end up with a lawn that\u2019s patchy and discolored come spring.<\/p>    <p>Raking helps break up this moisture trap and keeps the airflow moving across your lawn. The sooner you rake the wet leaf piles, the less chance fungi will take hold.<\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-discourages-pests\">Discourages Pests<\/h3>    <p>Leaves can create a dark and moist environment that provides insects and pests with food and shelter. So, if your lawn is covered with damp, decaying leaves during fall, it can be a fantastic B&amp;B for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/pest-control\/common-insect-pests-damaging-lawn\/\">common insect pests<\/a>. And if you don\u2019t act on it, these unwanted guests won\u2019t just stay for a few days.<\/p>    <p>Even if you\u2019re not afraid of cockroaches, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/pest-control\/grass-spiders\/\">grass spiders<\/a>, or beetles, it\u2019s not a good idea to let leaves pile up on your lawn. Take their comfy hiding spots away by raking up fallen leaves. If you do, fewer pests will overwinter in your yard, which means fewer problems when spring arrives.<\/p>    <p><strong><em>My Tip:<\/em><\/strong><em> Take extra caution when raking, as <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/pest-control\/how-to-get-rid-of-ticks-in-yard\/\"><em>ticks<\/em><\/a><em> remain active when temperatures are above freezing.<\/em><\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-creates-a-tidy-and-clean-yard\">Creates a Tidy and Clean Yard<\/h3>    <p>At first, a leaf-covered lawn may look rustic and beautiful. But after a while, the magic wanes and your yard starts to look messy.<\/p>    <p>After all the time and effort you\u2019ve put into keeping your lawn looking good, it would be a waste to allow leaves to cover up your masterpiece.<\/p>    <p>So, rake the leaves to keep your outdoor space looking neat and clean. A freshly raked yard also can help boost curb appeal and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/lawn-landscape-projects-increase-home-value\/\">increase home value<\/a>. Additionally, it can make spotting problems, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-fix-dry-patches-on-lawn\/\">dry patches<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-grass\/\">weeds<\/a>, much easier.<\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-helps-grow-newly-seeded-grass\">Helps Grow Newly Seeded Grass<\/h3>    <p>To properly <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-care-for-new-grass\/\">care for new grass<\/a>, you must provide it with everything it needs to establish strong roots before the harsh winter. But if a thick layer of leaves falls on your newly seeded grass, it can block out sunlight and water \u2014 two things your lawn needs to grow healthy. If this happens, it can smother the new sprouts.<\/p>    <p>Raking will keep the area open and clear, helping your new grass seedlings thrive. So if you\u2019ve recently <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-plant-grass-seed\/\">planted grass seed<\/a>, this is one time where mulching definitely won\u2019t help.<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7-why-you-should-mulch-leaves\">Why You Should Mulch Leaves<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"531\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/mulch-leaves-1.jpg\" alt=\"Artistic touch applied to photograph of senior man mulching autumn leaves on a riding lawn mower  \" class=\"wp-image-122300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/mulch-leaves-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/mulch-leaves-1-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/mulch-leaves-1-656x435.jpg 656w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/mulch-leaves-1-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/mulch-leaves-1-768x510.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A person on a riding lawnmower mulching leaves. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.publicdomainpictures.net\/en\/view-image.php?image=222766&amp;picture=mulching-autumn-leaves\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">PublicDomainPictures<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>If raking is not an option, you can mulch leaves to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-improve-lawn-mulch\/\">improve your lawn<\/a> instead.<\/p>    <p>No need to bag them up because you can just shred the leaves with your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-equipment\/how-does-a-mulching-mower-work\/\">mulching mower<\/a> and let nature do the rest. It\u2019s quicker, easier, and packed with benefits, such as:<\/p>   <ul style=\"padding-left: 1.1em; text-align: left; --ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px;; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); --ub-list-item-fa-li-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-spacing: 0px; column-count: 1; --ub-list-mobile-column-count: 1; \" class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-list ub_styled_list\" id=\"ub_styled_list-34554168-4f43-4aa0-8b8a-872ac894d382\"> <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-130b76c4-3659-4177-b1e4-52a4dabe2a30\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><a href=\"#8-acts-as-a-natural-fertilizer\">Acts as a natural fertilizer<\/a><\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-73dd4e7a-08e4-4a71-a336-e6c62b780d04\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><a href=\"#9-discourages-weed-seeds-from-germinating\">Discourages weed seeds from germinating<\/a><\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-00438aaf-76a5-4e40-a7b3-37c0287be0f4\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><a href=\"#10-helps-regulate-soil-temperature\">Helps regulate soil temperature<\/a><\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-b7627002-0da3-4dd1-8e17-68bf877d26fc\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><a href=\"#11-reduces-landfill-waste\">Reduces landfill waste<\/a><\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-f67be9d3-b5e5-42df-8a82-31958a85989c\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><a href=\"#12-eliminates-labor-intensive-bagging\">Eliminates labor-intensive bagging<\/a><\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li> <\/ul>   <p><strong>See Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/what-to-do-with-fallen-leaves\/\">What To Do With Fallen Leaves in Your Yard<\/a><\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8-acts-as-a-natural-fertilizer\">Acts as a Natural Fertilizer<\/h3>    <p>Besides tidying up your lawn, mulching leaves can also feed your grass. Since fallen leaves contain nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, using them as mulch can <strong>provide your lawn with 25% of its annual nutrient needs<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p>It\u2019s a free and natural way to boost soil health without buying extra fertilizer. Just run your mower over dry leaves until they\u2019re chopped into small bits. The smaller the pieces, the faster these leaves will decompose and enrich your lawn.<\/p>    <p><strong>Note:<\/strong> If the leaves on your lawn cover more than 50% of your turf, you should remove some of them first before mulch mowing.<\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9-discourages-weed-seeds-from-germinating\">Discourages Weed Seeds from Germinating<\/h3>    <p>Lawns with bare or thinning spots are vulnerable to weeds, as there is less competition for the nutrients in that particular spot. Covering them with mulched leaves can act as a natural weed barrier, blocking sunlight from reaching the weed seeds.<\/p>    <p>Mulching is a passive method of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-grass\/#9-smother-them\">getting rid of weeds<\/a> without the use of chemicals or manual removal. According to Bearss, \u201cLeaves contain organic chemicals that can naturally suppress colonizing weedy species.\u201d<\/p>    <p>So, if you mulch leaves, your lawn will be denser and more competitive against weeds. And with fewer weeds, there\u2019ll be less yard work for you come spring.<\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10-helps-regulate-soil-temperature\">Helps Regulate Soil Temperature<\/h3>    <p>A shredded leaf layer can help stabilize soil temperature.<\/p>    <p>\u201cLeaves are an excellent insulator for retaining heat and turf health over winter,\u201d Bearss says. It\u2019s especially useful in the fall when temperatures can swing wildly between warm days and chilly nights.<\/p>    <p>Additionally, consistent soil temperature protects the grass roots from early frost damage. Since mulching fallen leaves creates a cozy blanket for your lawn, it won\u2019t get stressed from sudden temperature drops.<\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11-reduces-landfill-waste\">Reduces Landfill Waste<\/h3>    <p>Raking and bagging leaves sends tons of yard waste to the landfill every year. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, <strong>yard trimmings made up around 12% (35.4 million tons)<\/strong> of municipal solid waste in 2018 alone.<\/p>    <p>If you want to do your part in reducing landfill waste, mulching can help a great deal. Plus, you\u2019ll also be giving the leaves a chance to give back to nature.<\/p>    <p>With mulching, you\u2019re keeping organic material in your yard where it belongs. It\u2019s an easy way to be more eco-friendly without making any big changes to your routine \u2014 just mow and go.<\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"12-eliminates-labor-intensive-bagging\">Eliminates Labor-Intensive Bagging<\/h3>    <p>Bagging leaves can be a real pain \u2014 more so if you have a big yard or a lot of trees. It can turn into an all-day job with all the raking, stuffing bags, and hauling them to the curb. You can skip all that with mulching.<\/p>    <p>Just mow over the leaves once or twice and call it done. No bags, no mess, no aching backs. It\u2019s the low-effort leaf cleanup option we all need, especially during busy fall weekends.<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"13-faq-about-raking-or-mulching-leaves\">FAQ About Raking or Mulching Leaves<\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1756276924170\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How Much Does Leaf Removal Cost?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Professional <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/cost\/leaf-removal-price\/\">leaf removal costs<\/a> around <strong>$150 to $250<\/strong> for a 1\/4-acre yard or between <strong>$210 and $465<\/strong> for a 1\/2-acre yard.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1756276933156\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I Mulch Leaves if I Don\u2019t Have a Mulching Mower?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, you can mulch leaves with a regular mower \u2014 just mow over dry leaves a few times to shred them into small pieces. For best results, though, use one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/reviews\/best-mulching-lawn-mowers\/\">best mulching lawn mowers<\/a> available today.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1756276941861\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What Should I Do with Leaves from Diseased Trees?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">To avoid contaminating other plants, you must bag the leaves from diseased trees and dispose of them properly. Don\u2019t mulch or compost them.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"14-let-the-experts-handle-leaf-removal\">Let the Experts Handle Leaf Removal<\/h2>    <p>Whether you\u2019re planning to rake or mulch your leaves, understand that it can take away your valuable time. Remember, you don\u2019t have to make a sacrifice to keep your lawn healthy. When you hire a <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=leafRemoval\">LawnStarter leaf removal pro<\/a>, you can spend time with your family and friends instead of dealing with fallen leaves.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle wp-block-ub-content-toggle-block\" id=\"ub-content-toggle-block-7c032210-2099-4f87-a5c6-c6e45dd132fd\" data-mobilecollapse=\"true\" data-desktopcollapse=\"true\" data-preventcollapse=\"false\" data-showonlyone=\"false\"> <div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion\" style=\"border-color: #f1f1f1; \" id=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-block-\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-title-wrap\" style=\"background-color: #f1f1f1;\" aria-controls=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-0-7c032210-2099-4f87-a5c6-c6e45dd132fd\" tabindex=\"0\"> \t\t\t<p class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-title ub-content-toggle-title-7c032210-2099-4f87-a5c6-c6e45dd132fd\" style=\"color: #000000; \"><strong>Sources:<\/strong><\/p> \t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-toggle-wrap right\" style=\"color: #000000;\"><span class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-state-indicator wp-block-ub-chevron-down\"><\/span><\/div> \t\t<\/div> \t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-content-wrap ub-hide\" id=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-0-7c032210-2099-4f87-a5c6-c6e45dd132fd\">  <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/salem.njaes.rutgers.edu\/2023\/08\/01\/beech-leaf-disease-is-saving-beech-out-of-reach\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Beech Leaf Disease: Is Saving Beech Out of Reach<\/a>?\u201d By Salvatore Mangiafico, county Extension department head. Rutgers University Extension.<\/li> <\/ul>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/extension.missouri.edu\/media\/wysiwyg\/Extensiondata\/Pub\/pdf\/agguides\/hort\/g06958.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Grass Clippings, Compost, and Mulch: Questions and Answers<\/a>.\u201d By Christopher Starbuck, associate professor. University of Missouri-Columbia.<\/li> <\/ul>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/ucanr.edu\/blog\/garden-notes\/article\/mulching-oak-leaves-turf-garden-and-landscape-and-composting\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mulching Oak Leaves for Turf, Garden and Landscape, and Composting<\/a>.\u201d University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources.<\/li> <\/ul>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling\/national-overview-facts-and-figures-materials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">National Overview: Facts and Figures on Materials, Wastes and Recycling<\/a>.\u201d United States Environmental Protection Agency.<\/li> <\/ul>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.canr.msu.edu\/people\/ryan-bearss\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ryan Bearss<\/a>, research assistant at Michigan State University. Personal interview.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/ucanr.edu\/site\/uc-marin-master-gardeners\/what-do-fallen-leaves\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">What to Do with Fallen Leaves<\/a>.\u201d University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources.<\/li> <\/ul>  <\/div> \t\t<\/div> <\/div>   <p>Main Image: Left: A rake gathering leaves. Right: A lawn mower mulching leaves.<br>Photo Credit: Rake: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/raking-fallen-leaves-in-the-garden-detail-of-rake-in-autumn-season\/178430199\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">encierro<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<br>Mulching Lawnmower: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/lawn-mover-mulching-up-fall-leaves\/295471178\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">V. J. Matthew<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock, Collage using Canva Pro.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Your needs will dictate whether it\u2019s better to rake or mulch leaves. For example, choose to rake for a tidy yard or mulch to reduce landfill waste.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":131,"featured_media":139793,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1583],"tags":[59],"class_list":["post-122295","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-leaf-removal","tag-leaf-removal"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Raking-vs-mulching.jpg?wsr","author_info":{"display_name":"Melanie Joseph","author_link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/author\/melanie-josephlawnstarter-com\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Is It Better to Rake or Mulch Leaves?<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Your needs will dictate whether it\u2019s better to rake or mulch leaves. For example, choose to rake for a tidy yard or mulch to reduce landfill waste.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/is-it-better-to-rake-or-mulch-leaves\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Is It Better to Rake or Mulch Leaves?\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Your needs will dictate whether it\u2019s better to rake or mulch leaves. 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