{"id":15465,"date":"2020-07-20T18:16:15","date_gmt":"2020-07-20T21:16:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/?p=15465"},"modified":"2025-08-12T09:29:19","modified_gmt":"2025-08-12T12:29:19","slug":"what-to-do-with-fallen-leaves","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/what-to-do-with-fallen-leaves\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Do With Fallen Leaves in Your Yard"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every fall, many homeowners face the same dilemma: what to do with fallen leaves. You can rake, mulch, or compost the leaves. You can also turn them into leaf mold or decorative crafts.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fall foliage is truly Instagram-worthy. But once the leaves fall on the ground, your yard can easily turn from rustic to chaotic. Still, it would be a waste to throw the leaves \u2014 they\u2019re free organic material you can use for your lawn and garden.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-a33f0abb-f632-49af-bf0d-e4660a97a740\" 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=\"\"><strong>Here are 8 things you can do with autumn leaves:<\/strong><\/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\/what-to-do-with-fallen-leaves\/#0-1-let-the-leaves-decompose\" style=\"\">1. Let the Leaves Decompose<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/what-to-do-with-fallen-leaves\/#1-2-turn-leaves-into-mulch\" style=\"\">2. Turn Leaves into Mulch<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/what-to-do-with-fallen-leaves\/#2-3-compost-autumn-leaves\" style=\"\">3. Compost Autumn Leaves<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/what-to-do-with-fallen-leaves\/#3-4-turn-leaves-into-leaf-mold\" style=\"\">4. Turn Leaves into Leaf Mold<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/what-to-do-with-fallen-leaves\/#4-5-create-a-wildlife-habitat\" style=\"\">5. Create a Wildlife Habitat<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/what-to-do-with-fallen-leaves\/#5-6-use-to-insulate-plants\" style=\"\">6. Use to Insulate Plants<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/what-to-do-with-fallen-leaves\/#6-7-bag-the-leaves-for-municipal-collection\" style=\"\">7. Bag the Leaves for Municipal Collection<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/what-to-do-with-fallen-leaves\/#7-8-create-crafts\" style=\"\">8. Create Crafts<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/what-to-do-with-fallen-leaves\/#8-faq-about-fallen-leaves\" style=\"\">FAQ About Fallen Leaves<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"0-1-let-the-leaves-decompose\">1. Let the Leaves Decompose<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/leaf-removal\/how-to-rake-leaves\/\">raking the leaves<\/a>, letting them decompose is the most effortless option that can benefit your yard.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to Ryan Bearss, research assistant at Michigan State University, \u201cLeaving leaves in place (at least to some extent) is every bit as beneficial as removing them.\u201d He continues, \u201cIn a home lawn, leaves can harbor pathogens and certainly reduce water infiltration rates, but they can also harbor beneficial microbes and provide nutrition to the system itself.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To avoid harming the grass, shred the leaves first before spreading a thin layer on your lawn. Once the shredded autumn leaves decompose, you can expect them to:<\/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-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-43863b48-5a9e-42b8-8b33-508ccc9afd27\"> <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-f4e13011-adea-4aa6-b421-5703018953f5\"> \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\">Add organic matter back into the soil<\/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-5c6f07d8-eeab-4b22-9632-eadfac4418be\"> \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\">Encourage beneficial fungi and microbes<\/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-aa06d2e9-e0ca-4ea5-b8ec-d1970fbc0c2f\"> \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\">Improve soil structure and moisture retention<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li> <\/ul>   <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td>If you\u2019re still keen on removing the leaves, or if more than 50% of your lawn is covered, <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=leafRemoval\">LawnStarter\u2019s leaf removal pros<\/a> can do it for around <strong>$158 per job<\/strong>. They 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>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-2-turn-leaves-into-mulch\">2. Turn Leaves into Mulch<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/mulching-leaves.jpg\" alt=\"A person is mulching plants by spreading autumn leaves from a bag over them in an outdoor setting.\" class=\"wp-image-138413\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/mulching-leaves.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/mulching-leaves-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/mulching-leaves-656x437.jpg 656w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/mulching-leaves-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/mulching-leaves-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Leaves as mulch. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/garden-work-mulching-plants\/509544406\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">larisikstefania<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another option is to make <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/what-is-mulch\/\">mulch<\/a> by shredding the autumn leaves. This <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/types-of-mulch\/\">type of mulch<\/a> can help smother weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature on your lawn, around trees, or in landscaping beds.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although you\u2019ll need a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/reviews\/best-mulching-lawn-mowers\/\">mulching mower<\/a>, leaf shredder, or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/reviews\/best-leaf-vacuums\/\">leaf vacuum<\/a> to turn the leaves into mulch, it\u2019s a win-win situation because you\u2019ll get <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/where-to-get-free-mulch\/\">free mulch<\/a> as a bonus.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Pro Tip:<\/em><\/strong><em> If you\u2019re vacuuming leaves on mulched beds, set it on medium and hold the lower tip of the vacuum tube about an inch above the leaves to avoid sucking up the mulch.<\/em><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/is-it-better-to-rake-or-mulch-leaves\/\">Is It Better to Rake or Mulch 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>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-3-compost-autumn-leaves\">3. Compost Autumn Leaves<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/423508812_c86406ef0a_o-1.jpg\" alt=\"A compost pile of decayed leaves and plants in a natural setting, likely part of a composting process.\" class=\"wp-image-122165\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/423508812_c86406ef0a_o-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/423508812_c86406ef0a_o-1-300x202.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/423508812_c86406ef0a_o-1-656x441.jpg 656w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/423508812_c86406ef0a_o-1-150x101.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/423508812_c86406ef0a_o-1-768x516.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Compost pile with leaves. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/joi\/423508812\/in\/photostream\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Joi Ito<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Leaves are great for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/what-is-compost\/\">compost<\/a> because they\u2019re packed with carbon, which balances out \u201cgreen\u201d materials like kitchen scraps.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cFallen leaves, once fully desiccated, have a fairly healthy <strong>carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratio of 30:1<\/strong>,\u201d says Bearss, \u201cwhich is an optimized rate for accelerated decomposition in a healthy compost pile.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s a quick overview of how you can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/composting-101-how-to-start-your-first-compost-pile\/\">start composting<\/a> using autumn leaves:<\/p>    <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Shred the leaves.<\/li>    <li>Layer them with green materials like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-compost-grass-clippings\/\">grass clippings<\/a>.<\/li>    <li>Turn the pile every few weeks to speed up decomposition.<\/li> <\/ol>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-4-turn-leaves-into-leaf-mold\">4. Turn Leaves into Leaf Mold<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While it sounds like a lawn disease, leaf mold is actually leaf litter or decomposed leaves. When used as mulch, it can help <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/guide-weed-control-yard\/\">suppress weeds<\/a>, regulate soil temperature, and retain <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-test-soil-moisture\/\">soil moisture<\/a>.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>To make a batch of leaf mold:<\/strong><\/p>    <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Rake leaves into a loose pile (or use a wire bin or breathable bags with holes) in a shaded corner of your yard.<\/li>    <li>Regularly moisten the leaf pile to keep it damp.<\/li>    <li>Let the pile sit for 6 to 24 months, turning it occasionally.<\/li> <\/ol>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-5-create-a-wildlife-habitat\">5. Create a Wildlife Habitat<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cLeaves, and any organic surface litter, provide tremendous shelter for micro and macrofauna, shield organisms from light, retain moist conditions, serve as a food source, and retain heat,\u201d Bearss says. \u201cAll of these, of course, directly benefit a turf system&#8217;s inhabitants.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In regions with cold winters, even a small pile of fallen leaves can be a lifeline for local wildlife. Frogs, toads, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/beneficial-insects-lawn-garden\/\">beneficial insects<\/a>, and butterflies rely on leaf litter for shelter and survival during freezing temperatures.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are a few tips for turning your yard into a leaf-based, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/turn-your-yard-certified-wildlife-habitat\/\">certified wildlife habitat<\/a>:<\/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-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-149098b4-9f70-451e-9fc3-730a55a37357\"> <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-315acd87-76c6-43c4-b51d-539f9100b99c\"> \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\">Rake leaves into a loose pile in a quiet, undisturbed spot<\/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-8ff65a4d-07c0-49a5-a590-c48d497af3dc\"> \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\">Tuck piles under trees, shrubs, or along fences<\/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-cb5602c5-272f-4dfd-9afe-f766a672f292\"> \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\">Avoid moving or disturbing the pile until spring<\/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-e0d6c327-2706-4a8b-952a-8757c1eef156\"> \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\">Keep the pile away from high-traffic areas<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li> <\/ul>   <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/ways-to-encourage-biodiversity\/\">Ways to Encourage Biodiversity in Your Yard<\/a><\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-6-use-to-insulate-plants\">6. Use to Insulate Plants<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can use autumn leaves as a natural winter blanket to protect the roots of your plants from freeze-thaw cycles. Simply pile dry, shredded leaves around the base of your plants.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Pro Tip:<\/em><\/strong><em> Cover the area with a layer of burlap or chicken wire for added insulation or to keep the leaves in place.<\/em><\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-7-bag-the-leaves-for-municipal-collection\">7. Bag the Leaves for Municipal Collection<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"483\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Putting-leaves-in-a-bag.jpg\" alt=\"A person is gathering autumn leaves into a green bag, possibly for collection or composting in a garden.\" class=\"wp-image-118029\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Putting-leaves-in-a-bag.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Putting-leaves-in-a-bag-300x181.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Putting-leaves-in-a-bag-150x91.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Putting-leaves-in-a-bag-768x464.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Leaves in a bag. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/seasonal-raking-of-leaves-in-the-garden-concept-of-cleaning-and-caring-for-the-garden-man-rakes-withered-and-colorful-leaves-in-the-garden-autumn-cleaning-before-winter-spring-cleaning-garden\/300998577?asset_id=300998577\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sebastian<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you don\u2019t have time to try the methods above, bagging is a good solution. Not all cities have leaf pickup programs, though, so check your local guidelines first. Some towns have designated drop-off locations or pickup days and may require the use of paper yard waste bags or bins.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you don\u2019t have curbside pickup, you\u2019ll have to bag the leaves and take them to the dump yourself.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>My Tip:<\/em><\/strong><em> Avoid bagging wet leaves and mixing leaves with other trash or large branches.<\/em><\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7-8-create-crafts\">8. Create Crafts<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some people (including myself) see autumn leaves as a chance to get creative. Here are <strong>some leaf project ideas<\/strong>:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Make crayon leaf rubbings<\/li>    <li>Press leaves onto parchment paper and frame<\/li>    <li>Create autumn garlands or table centerpieces<\/li>    <li>Use leaves to make DIY greeting cards<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>My Tip:<\/em><\/strong><em> You can make bookmarks out of leaves. If you don\u2019t have a laminator or glycerin, you can use clear tape to preserve fresh or dried leaves.<\/em><\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8-faq-about-fallen-leaves\">FAQ About Fallen Leaves<\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1754714274212\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How Often Should I Remove Fallen Leaves?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">It depends on where you live and the number of trees in your yard.<br\/><br\/>If you have many trees and the changing seasons cause a lot of their leaves to turn and fall, mulch mowing or raking leaves once or twice a week may be necessary during fall. But if you mostly have palm or pine trees and not really a change in season, you may never have to rake leaves at all.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1754714283739\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What\u2019s the Best Way to Deal With a Huge Amount of Leaves?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">If autumn leaves are covering more than half of your lawn surface, it would be better to rake or remove them. Otherwise, you can use a mulching mower if the leaf coverage is less than 50% of the lawn\u2019s surface area.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1754714289071\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I Use Leaves from Diseased Trees?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No, don\u2019t use leaves from diseased trees. Bag and dispose of them.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9-leave-the-fallen-leaves-to-the-pros\">Leave the Fallen Leaves to the Pros<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don\u2019t let fallen leaves go to waste. With just a little effort, you can turn this seasonal clutter into something useful, whether by composting, mulching, or crafting. But if you can\u2019t bear the thought of raking or shredding leaves, you can always call a <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=leafRemoval\">LawnStarter leaf removal pro<\/a> to handle the cleanup for you.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle wp-block-ub-content-toggle-block\" id=\"ub-content-toggle-block-0914fdd3-724f-4309-8c1f-8572a25d1887\" data-mobilecollapse=\"false\" data-desktopcollapse=\"true\" data-preventcollapse=\"false\" data-showonlyone=\"true\"> <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-0-0914fdd3-724f-4309-8c1f-8572a25d1887\" tabindex=\"0\"> \t\t\t<p class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-title ub-content-toggle-title-0914fdd3-724f-4309-8c1f-8572a25d1887\" 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-0-0914fdd3-724f-4309-8c1f-8572a25d1887\">  <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/extension.psu.edu\/composting-leaves\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Composting Leaves<\/a>.\u201d By Vincent Cotrone, Extension educator. Pennsylvania State University Extension.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/extension.illinois.edu\/blogs\/good-growing\/2019-10-15-how-reuse-fallen-leaves-home\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How To Reuse Fallen Leaves at Home<\/a>.\u201d By Ken Johnson, horticulture educator. University of Illinois Extension.<\/li>    <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:\/\/site.extension.uga.edu\/paulding\/2022\/01\/stop-dont-burn-those-leaves\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Stop! Don\u2019t Burn Those Leaves<\/a>.\u201d By Christen Thomas, ANR program assistant. University of Georgia Extension.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.extension.iastate.edu\/news\/yard-and-garden-managing-fallen-leaves\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Yard and Garden: Managing Fallen Leaves<\/a>.\u201d By Aaron Steil, consumer horticulture Extension specialist. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.<\/li> <\/ul>  <\/div> \t\t<\/div> <\/div>   <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main Image: Autumn leaves on the ground. Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/many-autumn-leaves-on-ground\/306101057\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixel-Shot<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock Free \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/license-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>From composting and turning them into mulch to bagging them for municipal collection and creating crafts, learn what to do with fallen leaves.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":131,"featured_media":122170,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1583],"tags":[59],"class_list":["post-15465","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\/2020\/07\/AdobeStock_306101057-1.jpeg?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 v27.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>What to Do With Fallen Leaves in Your Yard<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"From composting and turning them into mulch to bagging them for municipal collection and creating 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