Gene Caballero, Co-founder of Greenpal | GreenPal
As autumn approaches, homeowners face the recurring question of whether to rake or mulch their fallen leaves. A recent survey conducted among 275 homeowners sheds light on this debate.
The survey results indicate a preference for mulching, with 164 respondents favoring it over raking. In contrast, 111 participants prefer raking. Among those who mulch, 82 cited ease and speed as the primary reasons for their choice. On the other hand, preventing pests and lawn disease was the main reason for choosing raking, according to 76 voters.
Mulching involves chopping leaves into small pieces and spreading them across the lawn. This process allows leaves to decompose naturally, returning nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to the soil. These nutrients are beneficial for grass growth and reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers. Mulching also helps prevent weeds from taking root and improves soil structure and water retention.
However, some concerns exist regarding mulching. Excessive accumulation of leaves can block sunlight and air circulation, potentially leading to turf diseases. Wet layers of mulched leaves may trap moisture on the lawn's surface, promoting fungal diseases like snow mold.
Raking involves manually collecting fallen leaves and disposing of them through various means such as bagging or composting. Raking prevents suffocation of grass by removing large piles of leaves that hinder sunlight exposure and nutrient absorption. Additionally, a neatly raked lawn is aesthetically pleasing to some homeowners.
Despite its benefits, raking is labor-intensive and can be costly if disposal services are required. It also removes valuable nutrients that mulched leaves provide.
Homeowners should consider several factors when deciding between raking and mulching: lawn size and type; leaf fall volume; lawn condition; climate; and moisture levels. Mulching is more efficient in dry climates with moderate leaf fall on healthy lawns while raking suits wet conditions with heavy leaf accumulation or thin lawns.
Ultimately both methods have advantages: mulching enriches soil nutrition while saving time; raked lawns appear tidier without smothering risks associated with excess foliage coverage during winter months ahead."