Gardeners Reuse Leaves, Preserve Winter Wildlife Habitat

Fallen leaves can be put to work rather than bagged for disposal: finely mowing dry leaves into lawns, mixing them into garden beds, or using them as mulch can add organic matter, support soil health, and conserve moisture. Leaves can also provide winter cover for beneficial insects, while leaving seed-bearing perennials and ornamental grasses standing can feed birds and shelter wildlife. Fall cleanup should be selective: avoid pruning many spring-blooming shrubs, which flower on old growth, and leave woody perennials such as lavender standing to protect their crowns; remove plants when cleanup is needed for plant health or disease prevention. For a decorative use, leaves can be dried, sealed with decoupage medium, and arranged in a framed display.