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CHARLOTTEVILLE, Virginia (WVIR) – Fall is in full swing, which means people are raking their gardens.
Ellen Powell, conservation education coordinator for the Virginia Forestry Service, says there are a few things you should know before bagging those leaves.
“This is a benefit because raking the leaves and spreading them around the base of the tree reduces the amount of grass that has to be mowed,” says Powell.
She says it’s important not to remove all leaves from the garden. This is because the leaves provide nutrients for the tree and are also a habitat for microorganisms. Small piles, about 4 inches high, can keep roots warm before and during winter.
“You have to be careful not to pile it directly into the trunk, basically you want to leave a little space,” Powell said.
She also warned people not to burn the leaves because of air pollution, and refraining from doing so could lead to uncontrolled growth. You can reduce the chance of a serious fire.
Powell says mulching near trees can reduce weeds. Click here for details on that.
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