Raking leaves might be fun the first time, especially if your kids or pets love to jump in the piles, but after that, it might seem like a chore you would much rather ignore—especially if you struggle with how to dispose of them. However, there are some significant reasons why leaf removal should be a priority.
Here are a few reasons why leaf removal matters more than you might think:
- Improved Lawn Health: When leaves pile up, they form a dense, moisture-trapping layer that can suffocate grass and prevent sunlight from reaching the soil. Leaf removal gives your lawn a fighting chance so that it looks its best once spring comes around again.
- Reduced Moss, Algae, and Weed Growth: Excess moisture from layers of leaves promotes the growth of moss and algae, which may rapidly spread across shaded lawns and hardscapes. Over time, this buildup can weaken your grass roots, causing bare spots and enabling invasive weeds to take root.
- Improved Safety: Fallen leaves on driveways and pathways may become dangerously slick when wet, posing slip risks for you and your guests. Leaf removal removes these dangers and offers a more inviting space.
- Reduced Pest Issues: Rotting leaves are the perfect habitat for mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects that prefer warm, humid weather. This can be an issue for your landscaping, kids, and pets.
- Preserves Nearby Water Sources: Proper leaf removal also preserves nearby water sources, as rain can sweep rotting leaves into storm drains, fueling algae blooms in streams, ponds, and rivers. These blooms reduce oxygen levels, endangering fish and affecting local ecosystems.