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Autumn is the prime time to rake leaves. But there's a fine line between early and late autumn raking. Ultimately, you will want to rake before the first frost or snow of the late autumn or early winter seasons and when leaves are dry.Dec 22, 2020

Leaving the leaves alone is a good way to support native pollinators and other insects and wildlife. These valuable insects rely on the habitat fallen leaves provide, especially over the winter months. Dead leaves also decompose, creating compost that can improve soil structure and fertility.Nov 2, 2021

Excessive leaf matter on your lawn going into winter is bad for several reasons. First, it will smother the grass and if not removed very soon in the spring it will inhibit growth. Second, it can promote the snow mold diseases. And finally, turf damage from critters (voles, mice) can be more extensive in the spring.

To remove the leaves without ripping up the plants, gently use a rake or a leaf blower. You can then shred the leaves with the mulching attachment of the leaf blower or by running over the pile with a lawn mower. Blow them or spread them back over the groundcover.Sep 28, 2010

While in most cases, your lawn will benefit if you keep the leaves where they fall, some raking may be necessary, the experts agree. ... If it looks like your mower won't be able to handle all the leaves or like your lawn is being smothered, that's when you may need to rake them to thin it out, he says.Oct 5, 2019

The National Wildlife Federation states: “The leaf layer is its own mini ecosystem!” The leaves are a natural habitat for butterflies, salamanders, chipmunks, box turtles, toads, shrews, earthworms and others. ... By raking or blowing leaves, you disrupt their life cycle and eliminate beneficial insects.

Cutting down the dead plant stems too early in the spring will disturb them before they have a chance to emerge. Wait as long as you can to do your spring garden clean up. Ideally, you should wait until the daytime temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees F for at least 7 consecutive days.

If you're worried about leaves blowing out of your garden beds, you can shred them into a finer textured mulch by putting them in a big trash can and using hedge clippers to chop them down into smaller pieces less likely to blow away. If you decide to get rid of your leaves, don't throw them in the trash.Nov 12, 2014

Raking leaves is considered moderate physical activity, similar to a brisk walk, according to Barbara Ainsworth, an exercise epidemiologist at San Diego State University. ... It helps build upper-body strength, as well as core strength, or strength in your back and stomach.