As fall approaches, you'll likely notice a buildup of dead leaves in your yard. Before you get frustrated at having to rake and discard of them, know that dead leaves actually have some benefits. Pantano Power Equipment has listed a few uses for fallen leaves.
1. Winter mulch
Perennial plants need protection during the winter from the cold and snow. Dead leaves make the perfect organic mulch. Redbeacon suggested mounding the leaves six to eight inches around the base of trees and plants. Make sure you place leaves along the entire root system. Keep in mind that this should be done after the ground freezes, and you'll need to remove the leaves in the spring when the soil begins to warm back up.
2. Fertilizer
The nitrogen in the decaying leaves makes them an excellent source of nutrition for your landscaping. Finely cut the leaves using either a Husqvarna lawn mower or a garden shredder before spreading them evenly over your lawn, garden and shrubbery. Thinly shredded dead leaves allow sunlight and water to reach the grass while adding nitrogen and nutrients to the soil as they break down.
By spreading dead leaves evenly across your lawn and garden, you can create a free, environmentally friendly fertilizer. 3. Arts and crafts
The option isn't lawn related, but it is a blast. Gather up your dead leaves using a Husqvarna leaf blower and get creative. Dead leaves make great additions to fall decorations like wreaths, table centerpieces and leaf pressings. If you're feeling extra crafty, you could stuff the dead leaves into plastic bags and use them to create Halloween lawn decorations.
So, before you just toss your dead leaves into the garbage, consider using them for one of the projects above. Decaying leaves offer many benefits to your lawn, and they may even provide a good time for you and your family.