Week 34:Garden Tip 34

LEAF LITTER

Lawn growth slows and eventually stops with the onset of shorter days and cooler temperatures of fall. It is said that we should leave the leaves, but a heavy mat of leaves should never be allowed to accumulate on the lawn. I continue to mow my lawn weekly at this time of year for leaf maintenance.

Leaf litter in early November is light, so I mow the leaves (without bagging) and the shredded leaves are left to improve the lawn soil. Later in the season, when leaf accumulation is heavy, I mow and bag the leaves and spread them lightly over garden beds.