Cooperative Extension Service Communications and Technology Department 3354 1000 E. University Ave. Laramie, WY 82071 (307) 766-2540 • fax (307) 766-3998 • www.uwyo.edu

 

For Immediate Release

Contact: Robert Waggener, Editor

Phone: (307) 766-3571

E-mail: robertw@uwyo.edu

Date: Oct. 30, 2006

 

Landscaping Tips

Raking leaves a worthwhile task

By Scott Hininger
UW Cooperative Extension Service

            Leaf raking may not be a favorite pastime each fall, but it can provide an important ingredient for compost, lessen the spread of diseases and help prevent grass and other plants from being smothered.

            If composted, one year's litter from a full-grown tree can be worth up to $15 as organic fertilizer and humus. Pound for pound, the leaves from oaks, maples and elms contain twice the calcium, phosphorus and magnesium as manure.

             Compost can be easily made by placing leaves in a large, dark-colored garbage bag. Start with a 4-inch layer on the bottom. Follow this with an inch-layer of soil, and then scatter a handful of a complete garden fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) over the soil.           Sprinkle the mixture with water, and repeat the layering process until the bag is nearly full. Seal the bag and place in a protected area in the sun. By next spring, the compost should be ready.

            Leaves can also be added to backyard compost piles. For tips on composting, see the University of Wyoming Cooperative Extension Service bulletin B-974R, Backyard Composting: Simple, Small-Scale Methods, at www.uwyo.edu/CES/http://ces.uwyo.edu/PUBS/Turf/Turf_http://ces.uwyo.edu/PUBS_Main.html.

            A number of cities across Wyoming have community compost programs that accept lawn and garden debris. If not sure about your city, call the landfill, parks department or city hall.

            Leaves can harbor diseases, which can spread to other plants if not removed from the ground. Diseases are generally killed when the compost reaches high temperatures. Generally, the diseases are host specific, meaning diseased leaves from aspen, for example, will not affect evergreens or flowers.

            There is another benefit to raking leaves. If they remain on the ground through winter, they could pack down and smother grass and other plants beneath. 

            Collecting leaves can be made easier by using the proper tool. If purchasing a leaf rake, make sure the handle is long enough so you don’t have to stoop as you work. Using a mower equipped with a bag is a good way to collect leaves for composting. There are also electric- and gas-powered tools specifically designed for vacuuming and/or blowing leaves.

            Dry leaves rake up easier than wet ones, which tend to stick to the ground, grass or plants.      

      This fall, remember to deep water trees (especially evergreens), shrubs, grass and perennial flowers before the ground freezes. This will help the plants survive Wyoming’s long, generally dry winters.

            An occasional watering during the winter is important if the ground is dry; this is especially true for evergreens.

###