Winter (December) Landscape Maintenance: Leave the Leaves

As fall's color palette cascades onto our yards, it's time to embrace those fallen leaves – they're not just debris, but a natural treasure! These organic gifts serve multiple purposes for your outdoor space and local ecosystem.

Fallen leaves are nature’s multitasking ground cover, offering numerous benefits to your environment. As they decompose, they naturally suppress weeds and enrich the soil with essential nutrients. These leaves aren't just dead plant matter – they create a vital micro-habitat for beneficial wildlife. Butterflies, lizards, birds, frogs, bees, and a wide array of insects rely on leaf litter for shelter and winter survival.

Instead of bagging and disposing of leaves, consider them nature's own mulch and protective layer. Simply mow over them or gently rake them into garden beds to provide winter insulation. 

Seasonal bonus: Take advantage of the beautiful days! Step outside and enjoy the crisp air and changing landscape. Keep an eye on shifting weather patterns and be prepared to protect sensitive plants if temperatures drop unexpectedly. You can revisit our November post for tips on covering plants.