10/27/2023
Just leave your leaves!
1. Fallen leaves are the refuge for overwintering butterflies and moths. Wrapped in their cocoons, many, many species of butterflies and moths (lepidoptera) over-winter in the leaves and other spent plant material.
2. Birds rely on leaves and spent plants. The fallen leaves, dead grasses and other plants are all part of a habitat that supports birds. In spring and summer, nesting songbirds raise their young on insects and worms that are at home in the dead plants and leaves.
3. Toads and Salamanders live in there. Leaves are vital wildlife habitat. Critters ranging from turtles and toads to birds, mammals and invertebrates rely on leaf litter for food, shelter and nesting material.
4. Leaves are a natural mulch. They help suppress weeds and fertilizes the soil as it breaks down.
5. The layers of expired plants reduce soil erosion and help moderate the speed of water run-off and absorption.
6. The less time you spend raking leaves the more time you’ll have to enjoy the gorgeous fall weather
