If you’re looking for an excuse to get out of raking the leaves, you’re not alone. As lawn care professionals who do leaf cleanup for a living, we get it. The good news is, this whole idea that leaves are good for your lawn – it has some merit – but there are some important pros and cons to consider before you hang up your rake and gloves for good.
First and foremost, when we say, “leaving leaves on the lawn,” we don’t mean big heaping piles or a thick layer of wet leaves. We’re talking about mulching or, more specifically, running a mower over dry, crunchy leaves and chopping them into small pieces. If this sounds like something you can get behind, let’s dig in.
Pros of Leaving Leaves on the Lawn
An unraked lawn may not look its best, but mulching leaves can save you time, protect your grass from weeds and cold temperatures, enrich the soil, and do good things for the environment.
- Saves Time – Mulching takes a lot less time than raking and bagging leaves, and it puts a lot less stress on your body, too.
- Suppresses Weeds – Mulched leaves can suppress weeds in flower beds, and discourage crabgrass and dandelions from growing in the lawn.
- Enriches Soil – Decomposing leaves act as a natural fertilizer, returning vital nutrients, like carbon and nitrogen, to the soil.
- Insulates Roots – Leaf cover can help the soil retain moisture and insulate the roots of plants and grass from cold temperatures.
- Protects Pollinators – Many pollinators, like moths and butterflies, rely on decomposing leaves for food, shelter and nesting material during the winter.
- Reduces Waste – Bagged leaves generate methane gas as they decompose, so skipping the landfill means less waste and fewer greenhouse gases.
Cons of Leaving Leaves on the Lawn
Mulched leaves can be good for your lawn, but they can also do harm if they’re not managed properly. Plus, an unraked lawn can take some getting used to – especially for your neighbors and the HOA.
- Lowers Curb Appeal – Mulching doesn’t look as neat and tidy as a raked lawn, and some leaves can even stain walkways and decks.
- Smothers Grass – Too many leaves can block essential sunlight and air, suffocating your grass, damaging your lawn, and causing thatch buildup.
- Fosters Disease – The damp environment created by leaf cover can encourage the growth of fungal diseases, mold and other pathogens.
- Attracts Pests – In addition to the happy pollinators, leaves can become a breeding ground for unwanted pests, like slugs, snails and rodents.
- Clogs Drainage – Leaves can clog storm drains and gutters, causing flooding and water damage to your yard and foundation.
- Violates Rules – Blowing leaves can be an issue for neighbors, and some homeowners associations have ordinances regarding the removal of unmanaged yard waste.
Affordable Leaf Removal in Virginia Beach
Whether you decide to mulch or rake, if you’re still looking for an excuse to get out of cleaning up the leaves, Sean’s Lawns can help. In addition to our lawn mowing and poop scooping business, we provide professional leaf removal services in the Virginia Beach area.
To request a quote or make an appointment for leaf cleanup in Virginia Beach, contact us, text, or give us a call at 757-650-1380.