Looking for an excuse not to rake your leaves?
The Nature Conservancy of Canada says, “you’re welcome.”
According to Samantha Knight, program manager for the Weston Family Science program at the Nature Conservancy of Canada, property owners who haven’t raked and bagged their leaves already can avoid back-breaking yard work by leaving a layer or two of leaves on the ground.
Knight notes that many animals, such as toads, frogs- and some moths and butterflies, have adapted to hibernate in the leaf litter, which can provide an insulating blanket and help protect these animals from the cold.
Migratory and resident birds will also be thankful, as fruits and seeds that remain on flowers and shrubs are a crucial food source.
Another benefit of not raking your leaves is soil improvement. As leaves break down, they transform into a natural mulch.
Read Knight’s full article on the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority website.
By Rick Stow