Falling Leaves, Oh My!!!

What is the ‘greenest’ way to handle the oranges, yellows, and browns that fall everywhere this time of year?

In the past, the inclination was to rake the leaves into piles and burn them. This practice is no longer recommended, due to the toxic particulates added to the air we breathe, safety issues and creating a neighborhood annoyance. Many communities have banned this disposal method.  

One of the best practices for handling leaves is simply mowing them into the lawn.  This process has many benefits compared to the alternatives, including: no raking, bagging, dragging or tending a smoldering burn pile.   

 Additionally, mulching leaves into your lawn returns the nutrients to the tree, which spent an entire season creating the leaves as next year’s food source! Leaves are rich in carbon, phosphorus, and potassium – all of which help sustain your trees naturally while also supporting a healthier lawn.

 This year, put away the rake and bring out the mower to handle those colorful fallen leaves.  Your trees, and your neighbors, will thank you!

For details, visit waukeshacounty.gov/leaves