Turning a fall yard mess into a mulch powerhouse

Above-average temperatures in Minnesota make it tempting to rake and bag all the leaves in your yard but people who study the natural world said it is better for surrounding ecosystems when some piles are set aside for the winter.

The National Wildlife Federation recognizes October as "Leave the Leaves Month," when homeowners are encouraged to move some of the leaves they have cleared from open yards and sidewalks into garden beds where they serve as natural mulch.

David Mizejewski, naturalist for the federation, said adding a sustainable touch to your fall yard work will turn you into a champion for habitat.

"If we get rid of all the leaves in the fall and we throw them out, you're literally throwing away entire generations of pollinators, of fireflies, which of course everybody loves seeing," Mizejewski pointed out.

He added other species of animals, from salamanders to chipmunks to many songbirds, actually forage and even nest in that leaf layer. Another bonus is the leaves protect soil moisture and suppress weeds as they slowly compost and return nutrients to the roots of the plants.

For those worried about appearances, experts said you should still avoid leaving a large collection of fallen leaves across open areas so they will not kill the grass. Instead, scope out corners for tiny compost piles, while keeping a neat layer over any garden bed.

Mizejewski explained it sends a signal to neighbors you care about the health of your property and the tucked-away leaves are useful later on.

"Come spring, you can use that, what's called 'leaf mold.' It's really nutrient-rich compost that you can spread around your garden beds and even your vegetable gardens," Mizejewski suggested.

Mizejewski added if you have to get rid of leaves, avoid dumping them in plastic bags and throwing them in the landfill.

"They get buried underground where that organic matter produces methane, which is one of our most potent greenhouse gases that's contributing to climate change. And believe it or not, our landfills are the third-largest source of methane pollution," Mizejewski emphasized.