The Hidden Ecological Benefits of Leaving Autumn Leaves on Your Lawn
Why You Should Leave Your Leaves On the Ground This Fall
In Oregon, the fall brings lazy, low-lying clouds that drift by to cover tall buildings in mist. The wind blows in gently, bringing crisp, humid air and the smell of fireplaces roaring back to life once more as the temperatures lower to near-freezing. But, there is no greater welcome sight than the reddening of the moss and the leaves. From my window, I often stare in awe as the green, humid city of Portland shifts from the deep greens of a rainy summer to the golden hues of a foggy autumn. Then, with the chilly breeze, those leaves fall, covering the ground in a carpet of rich warm colors.
For many, particularly homeowners, this isn’t only a season of enjoying the colors of autumn, but also months of hefty work on behalf of their lawns. With rakes and mowers and leaf blowers, these folks wage war to fix the inconvenient part of nature’s beauty, fighting to keep their lawns clean and healthy. But, despite best intentions, this action may be a detriment to the health of that lovely, lush yard.
Though it might seem counterintuitive, leaving leaves that have fallen onto a lawn provides a myriad of effects that aren’t only beneficial for saving time and effort, but also can make your…
