Fall is here! Thoughts go to Halloween, pumpkins, and, of course, what gives the season its name: falling leaves. Many homeowners view that aspect of fall with dread. We’ve been trained to think we have failed our civic duty if a stray leave remains on the ground. Even more environmentally conscious homeowners are resigned to hours of raking and stuffing leaf bags to be hauled off to uncertain destinations. The less conscientious (in towns where it is still permitted) will fire up leaf blowers or pay “landscaping” companies to do the dirty work of torturing their neighbors and local wildlife with the noise, fumes, and dust these high-decibel machines throw out in pursuit of innocent leaves.
The good news: none of this is necessary. Leaves have been falling in New Jersey since the end of the last glaciation, enriching the soil and creating vital wildlife habitat. While interest in migrating birds and Monarch butterflies may leave the impression that most wildlife head south for the winter, in fact most of or local birds, butterflies, and bees tough out the New Jersey winters right alongside us. Many butterflies and moths pupate or even survive as caterpillars in fallen leaves. When we cart away the leaves, we throw away these beneficial insects. Bumblebee queens overwinter in shallow burrows insulated by leaf cover. Removing those leaves means they are exposed to freezing cold. Overwintering birds forage in fallen leaves for hidden insects, seeds, and other edibles; in the spring, many will use last fall’s leaves to help construct their nests. Taking away this essential resource makes their lives a lot harder.
What to do about those leaves? Rake up the ones that fall on your sidewalks and driveway. Spread them on your flowerbeds or around your shrubs — it’s free mulch and fertilizer, after all. Save some for your compost. But other than that, leave them be. If your plants, soil, and wildlife could thank you, they would.
So, instead of obsessing over leaves, take a seat in a recliner, savor the cooling weather, and admire the fall colors.
If anyone questions you, tell them you have the NEEC’s permission to be lazy.
The NEEC is a 501(c)(3) volunteer driven & tax-exempted nonprofit organization organization.
