What should you do with fallen leaves in your yard? If you’re not into spending hours raking and bagging leaves, don’t worry—you can still handle them without too much effort.
The easiest option?
Use your lawnmower to shred them and leave them on your lawn. That’s what I do.
The tiny pieces will break down and feed your grass over the winter.
Problem solved, and you barely have to lift a finger.
Option 1: Shred and Leave Them
For the least amount of work, mow over the leaves with a mulching mower.
The shredded bits will settle into your lawn and decompose, adding nutrients to the soil. Just make sure the leaf layer isn’t too thick before you start, or it might smother the grass instead of helping it.
Option 2: Mulch Your Garden Beds
If you’re feeling a little ambitious, rake up the shredded leaves and spread them over flowerbeds or around trees.
This acts as a natural mulch, protecting plant roots and keeping the soil moist. You still avoid bagging, and your plants get an extra boost.
Option 3: Compost Them
If you’ve got a compost pile—or want to start one—add the leaves to it.
Shredded leaves break down faster, especially if you mix them with “green” materials like food scraps or grass clippings. It’s a simple way to turn yard waste into something useful for your garden.
Option 4: Bag Them for Pickup
If you really just want the leaves gone, rake them into piles, bag them, and let your local yard waste service take care of the rest.
Many communities collect leaves for composting, so they’re not going to waste.
What Not to Do
Don’t burn leaves—it’s bad for the air and could be illegal in your area.
Also, don’t let thick piles of leaves sit on your lawn all winter. They trap moisture and block sunlight, killing the grass underneath.
- If you want to keep it simple, just mow over the leaves and let them feed your lawn like I do.
- If you’re willing to do a little more, mulch your garden beds or compost them for future use.
Whatever you choose, it doesn’t have to be a big chore, and your yard will thank you for it.
