How do you create leaf mulch?

Once your leaves have fallen, wait for them to fully dry out. You’ll know that they are dried when they reach that crunchy state that is so satisfying when you walk over them.

Then, chop up the leaves into little pieces.

The simplest method is to run over the leaves with a mulching lawnmower – just make sure that the leaves aren’t piled up too high or you might jam the mower. And be sure to remove any twigs, sticks, or stones that might damage your equipment.

You can also chop up leaves with a string trimmer (it’s easiest to put the leaves in a large trash can and then shred them with the string trimmer) or even a leaf shredder.

What are the benefits of leaf mulch on a lawn?

As leaves break down, they return nutrients, minerals, microbes, and other beneficial substances to the soil. Over time, the addition of leaf mulch means you’ll need to use less fertilizer, less water, and fewer chemicals to keep your lawn lush, green and healthy.

Won’t leaving the leaves on my lawn kill the grass?

Raking leaves became popular because people were taught that leaves can suffocate a lawn – or because some neighborhoods frown on the “messy” look of fallen leaves. The reality is that leaves won’t suffocate a lawn, but there are three things to watch out for.

1. If the tree leaves have been treated with an herbicide or pesticide, there is a chance that the chemicals can harm the grass.
2. If there are large piles of un-mulched leaves that become covered with heavy snow, there is a chance that snow mold will develop on your lawn (it’s a gray or pink fungus that can damage your grass).
3. If you’re using a mulching mower, don’t wait until all leaves have fallen and created a thick carpet before you run them over. Not only can it clog your mower, but it also won’t result in the finely chopped leaves you need. A deep layer of partially chopped leaves can damage your lawn.

However, if the leaves are untreated by chemicals and are properly mulched and spread over the lawn (or your garden), oxygen will still be able to reach your lawn and it will remain healthy.