09/24/2026
As leaves begin to fall, consider leaving them! A layer of leaf litter provides insulation and protection for overwintering insects, like fireflies! In this way it also provides foods for birds.
Leaf litter also acts as nature’s recycling plant. Nutrients within fallen leaves and woody debris get broken down and return to the soil for next year’s plants. This is nature’s mulch!
Instead of stuffing leaves into bags, push small leaf piles to the outskirts of your yard under trees and away from roads, walkways, and storm drains. You can also combine leaves and grass clippings for a rich compost to add to your garden
