As part of this, gardeners in the UK are being urged to do this one “simple” task to help keep their grass green and fresh during autumn and winter.
Whether it is from your own trees or perhaps a neighbour’s, picking up fallen leaves is a crucial part of garden care this time of year.
Now, experts have shared their top tips on how and why you should do this.
How to Care for Your Garden During Winter
Why people are being urged to clear fallen leaves in garden
Expert Chris Taylor from Chris Taylor Gardening said: “Clearing fallen leaves might seem like a simple job, but it helps to keep your garden healthy through autumn and into winter.
“When leaves are left to pile up on lawns, they block out light and trap moisture, which can quickly lead to yellowing, thinning, or even dead patches of grass.
“Wet leaves also encourage moss and fungal growth, which can be difficult to deal with later on.
“On borders and beds, a light covering of leaves can offer some protection to soil and wildlife, but it’s best to avoid thick mats forming, as they prevent air from circulating and can smother smaller plants underneath.”
Chris McIlroy, lawn expert at The Grass People, concurred, adding: “Falling leaves are a challenge for grass, especially when they’re not cleared off quickly.
“Clearing leaves from your garden isn’t just about tidiness, it’s essential for your lawn’s – and your garden’s – overall health.
“When leaves land on lawns they trap in moisture, block airflow and sunlight and become a breeding ground for diseases.
“Grass needs light and airflow to stay resilient before its winter dormancy – leaves can suffocate it.
“Acting early gives your garden the best chance. Rake away leaves little and often so you can keep on top of it, rather than tackling the task when a thick layer has already formed.”
Jonathan Davis, grass seed expert at Lawnsmith, described leaf removal as a “crucial” task when it comes to protecting your garden’s health heading into winter.
He said: “When leaves accumulate, they limit the sunlight and air that can get to your grass and plants, creating an environment that encourages fungal diseases like snow mould.
“Wet leaves in particular can be problematic as they can compact quickly on your lawn and are difficult to remove.”
Best methods for picking up fallen leaves in a garden
Chris Taylor recommended clearing leaves “little and often”, rather than letting them build up.
He said: “I usually recommend using a lightweight rake or a leaf blower to gather them, then composting them separately to make leaf mould — a fantastic, nutrient-rich soil conditioner that gardeners call ‘black gold.’
“You can do this by collecting leaves into breathable bags or a simple wire bin, keeping them slightly moist, and leaving them to break down naturally over a year or two. It’s a satisfying way to turn what’s often seen as a chore into a real asset for your garden.”
Expert Jonathan added: “Raking a lawn is the simplest way to prevent a buildup of fallen leaves but it can be time-consuming and difficult if the leaves and lawn are damp.
“A powerful leaf blower should make it easier for you to gather the leaves and dispose of them efficiently.
Why do leaves change colour in autumn?
“If you’re short on time, focus on areas that have heavy footfall and areas under trees, where build-up is worse.”
Meanwhile, garden expert and Senior Brand Manager at Ronseal, Jimmy Englezos, recommended putting leaves into a compost bin or heap once done.
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He added: “Or you can shred the leaves and apply them directly to your beds and borders as mulch.
“This helps the soil retain its moisture while preventing weeds and assisting with the activity of worms.
“Making time during more favourable periods of autumn weather to keep on top of this garden task will make spring-time garden maintenance more manageable.”
