RADIO TRANSCRIPT
November 1, 2024
Matt Rodriguez

This is Matt Rodriguez, horticulture agent with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Burke Center.

Today's Program is on what to do with your leaves that fall in your yard. The National Wildlife Federation suggests leaving the leaves on your lawn. There are many natural benefits to doing this, one of which is providing habitat to many small critters. Toads, Turtles, Birds and small mammals will call this “litter” home. Several insects like moths will overwinter in leaf piles. In Addition to habitat, they forage for food in this little microbiome that you create. The leaves will also break down overtime to add a natural compost to your soil. If you have to have an open lawn, then rake or blow the leaves to your garden beds and take a break from your typical mulching chores. There is also the option of having a brush pile to provide habitat, though this might be unsightly for some to have in their yard. You can also compost some of your leaves with grass clippings and other greens. Make your life and some leaf litter critter’s life easier and just leave the leaves.

This has been Matt Rodriguez, horticulture agent with North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Burke Center. For more information, call us at 828-764-9480.