Autumn is in full swing and winter is on it’s way! If you have not cleaned up all of those pesky leaves cluttering your yard and property, now is the perfect time and we are here to help you do it the easiest way while still disposing of them properly. Leaves can be a hassle, and it is great to know what specifically to do with all of them once you have finally managed to get them all cleaned up. Here are a few tips for cleanup and disposal:
Regulations and Decisions
When cleaning up leaves, you generally have a few options and it all depends on your personal situation. Before doing this common fall chore, be sure to check your city website and see what kind of regulations are in place for vacuuming, mowing, leaf blowing, or bagging. This will help you decide what option is best for you.
Bagging
If you are choosing to bag, be sure to check to see what bags are allowed. Some towns require that you use recyclable bags. Also check to see when your town picks up compost or bagged leaves so that you can dispose of them correctly!
Natural Areas
If applicable, and permitted, you can blow your leaves into woods or fields by your home where they can decompose and naturally recycle themselves. Be careful to not let them fly back into your yard on a windy day by blowing them deep enough into those natural areas.
Vacuuming
A lot of towns have curb vacuuming service available and if you coordinate your cleanup with the timed they will be sending out leaf vacuuming trucks, this could be your easiest option. Just be sure to..
- Never blow the leaves near or under parked cars to keep from fire hazard
- Never block storm drains or fire hydrants
- Be mindful of where and how you are blowing your leaves to make it more possible for those vacuuming to do their job
Degrading and mowing
Leaves are great for your local compost! It is even more helpful to shred your leaves before adding them to your compost pile. If shredding your leaves is off the table, you could leave your leaves whole and let them create a ‘leaf mold’ that will increase water retention and promote good bacteria growth in your yard to help with your quality of soil. You can also use a mulching lawn mower to rip the leaves to shreds and allow them to quickly and easily decompose to nourish and replenish your soil for spring.
