C&G’s Guide to Removing Autumn Foliage

Tips & Advice

Blow, rake, mulch or mow - what’s the best method to raking leaves? Do you remove Autumn foliage as soon as it hits the ground or wait for the rain to decompose leaves au naturale? In the latest C&G blog, we offer gardening tips to removing messy foliage while restoring your garden to pristine winter-ready conditions.Make Your Bed, Leaf In It

Making plant beds will help naturally decompose leaves. When leaves fall, run them over with a quick mow then rake them right into the beds – the leaves will dispose quicker and act as fertilizer for the plants. Plants that work best include shrubs, garlic bulbs, roses or tender perennials.

Leaf The Leaves Alone

If you live in bushlands or encounter wildlife in your backyard, leaves are habitats for small animals and will discompose naturally. Leave the foliage for nature to take its course or just clear up large piles.

A Leafy Investigation

Investigate your foliage! Pine needles are acidic which means you can dry them to produce acidic mulch. Leaves have different fibres and can be broken down by other plants, fungi or animals. It’s best to investigate your foliage to understand their mulching process.

Wet or Dry: Best Time To Rake Leaves

While wet leaves will form a more stable pile which is easier to collect and rake, they are also heavier to lift. If you are using a vacuum or blower, dry weather is best. Plus, allergies and sinuses can flare-up in cold, wet weather so better save it for a dry autumn day.

Raking Leaves

Best recommended for small lawns and gardens. Work from one side to the lawn in a zig-zag, collecting leaves while creating a clear walking path. Use a tarp or table cloth to move large piles of leaves with ease. Move the bundle by dragging all four corners – therefore capturing the leaves without leaving any behind!

Mowing Leaves

For large lawn areas mowing is best. Use a grass catcher to collect chopped up leaves. Best to do in dry weather to avoid wet clumping leaves.

Blow or Vacuum Leaves

Big yard? Leaf blowing will save you time, effort and keep your lawn free from messy foliage. It’s useful to blow in the direction of a fence or wall for later clean-up.

Leave It For Compost

Turn your leaves in compost by mulching them first, then putting them into a compost pile to decompose quickly. Use the decomposed leaves to fertilize your garden in the following Spring.

Makin’ Mulch

Shred the leaves by putting them into a large garage bin or trash can, then break them down with a weed whacker. This will make great natural mulch for your flowers, lawn and gardens.

If you need any assistance or have enquiries about green waste collection, please contact Bayside City Council for more information about general rubbish pick-up.