Essential Leaf Removal and Winterizing Tips

As autumn unfolds, trees turn beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow before shedding their leaves. While fall foliage is stunning, those leaves quickly pile up, requiring consistent care to keep your lawn healthy. Wilkins Lawn & Landscape in Carmel, IN, understands the importance of timely leaf removal and winterizing to prepare your lawn for the cold season. Here’s what every homeowner should know about managing fall leaves and protecting their outdoor spaces for winter.

When to Start Leaf Removal

Leaves typically begin falling in late September through November, depending on the type of trees around your property. Early-season leaf removal is often best for keeping up with the initial drop, but the real work comes in late fall when most leaves have fallen. You’ll likely need to clear leaves multiple times throughout the season, with a final collection just before winter to prevent any leftover debris from damaging your lawn.

How Often Should You Remove Leaves?

For best results, most homeowners should plan for leaf collection about three to four times throughout the season. This approach helps ensure leaves don’t pile up and smother the grass underneath. For larger properties or areas with lots of mature trees, you might need to increase the frequency of your leaf removal. A routine schedule keeps your lawn healthy and manageable as winter approaches.

What Happens If You Don’t Remove Leaves?

Leaving fallen leaves on your lawn over winter can lead to several problems:

• Lawn Damage: A thick layer of leaves blocks sunlight and traps moisture, causing grass to become weak or even die off.
• Increased Disease Risk: Wet, compacted leaves create an ideal environment for mold and lawn diseases.
• Attracting Pests: Decaying leaves attract insects and small animals that can damage your lawn and garden.

Clearing leaves before winter prevents these issues and keeps your lawn looking healthy and vibrant when spring arrives.

Winterizing Your Lawn and Landscape

Winterizing is the final step in preparing your lawn for winter. Once the leaves are gone, consider applying a fall fertilizer to strengthen the grass roots for the dormant season. Trim back any perennials and clean up garden beds to reduce the chance of pests and disease. In areas prone to heavy snow, you might also consider mulching to protect tender plants.

Trust Wilkins Lawn & Landscape for Fall Lawn Care

Keeping up with leaf removal and winterizing your lawn ensures a healthy, green yard come spring. For homeowners in Hamilton County, Wilkins Lawn & Landscape offers professional lawn care services to help you manage fall clean-up, fertilizing, and more. Call us today at (317) 406-4745 to schedule an appointment and keep your lawn in peak condition all year round.