DELMARVA- As the days grow shorter and trees shed their leaves, it's time to consider a more efficient approach than traditional raking. Mowing over fallen leaves in the fall, rather than raking and discarding them, offers numerous benefits, particularly with regard to the environment.
Keith Dickinson, Vice President of Bella Terra Landscapes and Garden Center, highlights the ecological advantages of mowing leaves, saying, "Raking the leaves, I feel, is completely unnecessary. Recycling the leaves back into the lawn is by far the best choice a homeowner can make."
By mowing over leaves, he suggests, homeowners can recycle and chop them into smaller pieces, returning valuable nutrients to the soil and enhancing its organic content. This practice not only simplifies yard maintenance but also nurtures the environment.
Adam Schlachter, Environmental Program Manager with DNREC, emphasizes the importance of keeping leaves in the soil rather than sending them to landfills. "The only thing we want in bags is trash, and that's the only thing that should go to the landfill. Yard waste should not be disposed of in a landfill."
Instead of raking leaves, Dickinson recommends a gradual approach to mulching, "Don't let the leaves build up. Don't wait for all the trees to shed, then attempt to recycle them all at once. Do it a little at a time, making sure the leaves are dry. A thick layer of leaves won't be very efficient for you."
Furthermore, these fallen leaves on the ground contribute to local ecosystem health. They provide habitat for small insects, which, in turn, become a food source for birds. This symbiotic relationship helps maintain a thriving and balanced local ecosystem.
Mowing over fallen leaves offers a practical and environmentally friendly solution for homeowners, promoting soil enrichment and supporting local ecosystems by ensuring that valuable nutrients return to the soil while reducing unnecessary yardwork.Â