When handling lawn maintenance, the sight of leaves covering the yard can be daunting. If you want to protect your grass, don't leave fallen foliage untouched. Although you might consider mulching fallen leaves, consider raking them up instead. Review this guide to learn about the benefits of this approach. 

Why Raking Leaves Is Better Than Mulching

1. Prevents Growth of Harmful Layers

Leaves in the yard build up and gradually create a heavy covering over your grass, which could harm it. With this top coating, it’s harder for the soil to receive sunlight and nutrients to help greenery grow and stay healthy. 

Raking gets rid of the layer entirely and is especially beneficial if leaves are constantly landing on your property. Since mulching has to be done a few times a week, it could be difficult to keep up with when foliage is falling and collecting quickly.    

2. Aerates the Lawn

Raking lifts away leaves and any other remnants, improving airflow. When grass can receive oxygen and breathe, it thrives and is better prepared to flourish when the warmer months arrive. With mulching, the grass may suffocate if the foliage isn't cut into small enough pieces.

3. Improves Composting

A pile of raked leaves can be saved for composting because it will turn into carbon-rich material. Once you’ve collected enough, you can use the compost to enrich other areas of the garden. This is an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fertilizer.  

For professional leaf cleanup, turn to Jake’s Lawn Care in Southwest Fort Worth, TX, for professional leaf pickup services. This lawn maintenance company has more than 30 years of experience working with residents to improve their yards. The highly skilled team can handle basic lawn care needs, as well as weed control, drainage, and aeration. Call (817) 292-2711 or visit them online to learn more about their lawn maintenance services.