It’s that time of year in Central Ohio when the leaves change and begin to fall, piling up throughout many Central Ohioan’s yards. For many, autumn is the time to break out the rakes, leaf blowers, and yard bags and begin months-long conquests against the gathering leaves. However, although removing the leaves gives us spotless yards, it’s actually more beneficial for the leaves to be left exactly where they are. Here’s why:

1. Leaf piles are wildlife’s food sources. Birds, small mammals, insects, reptiles, and many amphibians of Central Ohio rely on piles of leaves for the food that’s either hiding amidst the leaf litter or has been produced by the decaying pile of leaves. Piles of leaves are part of the food web for your yard’s inhabitants and without them, the web is broken.
2. Leaf piles are homes for wildlife. Many species of reptiles and amphibians like to hide out amongst the leaves. Additionally, a number of moths and butterflies are only pupae in the winter months and their home is – you guessed it - hidden amongst the leaves. Not only does leaf removal remove prime habitat for wildlife, but it disrupts the survival of a number of species depending on the pile of leaves for shelter.
3. Leaves make the soil fertile. Vital nutrients are added to the soil when leaves decay. This becomes a natural fertilizer that makes the soil healthy for planting or natural growth.

However, if you find that you must clear away the leaves from your yard – here are some eco-friendly tips and options:

1. Create leaf mold. Pile the leaves in a corner of your yard and leave them there to decay and become a part of the soil – this is known as leaf mold. It’s not exactly like composting (since the decaying leaves don’t involve other organic matter), but it helps with the soil health and water retention within your yard.
2. Compost. Compost the leaves with organic matter (vegetable and fruit scraps from your kitchen, grass clippings, coffee grounds, egg shells, etc.), add nutrients to the soil, and reduce waste all at the same time. It’s a win-win all around! You can start your own compost pile or bin within your yard, or you can take the leaves to a municipal recycling center to have them turned into compost to be used around your community.
3. Don’t use a leaf blower. If you need to move the leaves, don’t use a leaf blower. Leaf blowers rely on fossil fuels to work, which pollutes the environment. Using a rake is a greener way to clear away the leaves – plus you’ll get more exercise!

Works Referenced

Mizejewski, D. (2014, Nov. 12). What to do With Fallen Leaves. Retrieved from http://blog.nwf.org/2014/11/what-to-do-with-fallen-leaves/

Tinker, D. (2013, Nov 21). 6 Excuses to Avoid Yard Work this Fall. Retrieved from http://blog.nwf.org/2013/11/6-excuses-to-avoid-yard-work-this-fall/

Contributed by Hilary Hirtle