It’s that time of year when there’s a chill in the air, trees changes colors, and leaves begin to fall. Whether you have a small yard or an acre of grass it’s important to rake your leaves (and fertilize the lawn) before the first snowfall.  Not only do leaves distract from the beauty of your lawn, they can prevent re-growth of your grass next spring. To help motivate you, we’ve created a raking how-to list so you can get started this weekend!

First – Determine Your Tools

While a rake is the most common tool, you may also consider using a leaf blower or a mulching mower. A mulching mower is the anti-rake machine. It runs over dry leaves and shreds them. The leaf leftovers decompose in the grass and enrich your soil.

You will also need a tarp or a large drop-down cloth to help dispose of your leaves when you are done.

Second – Pick Your Spot

Pick a finishing spot in your yard to place your tarp. We recommend that you begin raking leaves in your finishing spot (the size of your tarp) before placing the tarp there. If it’s a windy day, place small rocks or piles of leaves on each corner of your tarp/cloth so corners don’t blow over.

Third – Start Raking!

If you have longer grass, short strokes will help dig up all the leaves; however if you have shorter grass you can get away with long I-strokes. Rake the leaves toward the tarp and fill it with leaves until full.

If you have a larger yard, create medium-sized leaf piles in different places (or a giant one if you want to let the kids jump in it) and move your tarp to each pile to gather the leaves.

Fourth – Trash It

When your tarp gets full, take one corner of your tarp and join it with its diagonal corner. Do the same with the other two corners. Then carry your leaves to its final destination (trash bags, the woods, neighbors yard – just kidding!). And that’s it!

Raking might seem like a chore, but consider it a good workout and turn it into family fun! Do you prefer a rake, leaf blowers or a mulcher when taking care of leaves in your yard?