Some people like it, some people tolerate it, and some people would do anything to avoid it. No matter how you feel about it, raking leaves in the fall is a task that comes with a tree-lined property. It requires patience, effort, and the right tools, but there’s no reason why you can’t have fun doing it. Fall is a wonderful time to be outdoors, and the whole family can do it! Let us help you get the job done with nine tips for raking leaves this fall.

Make Raking Easier on You

There are ways to be more efficient with your least favorite autumn chore. Save time and eliminate stress with these helpful tips for raking leaves this fall.

1. Raking leaves is an aerobic exercise, so it’s wise to stretch before and after. Posture is everything. Keep legs slightly bent and your back straight. Switch your lead arm from time to time. And pace yourself. The leaves aren’t going anywhere, so you can take breaks or even spread the task out over a few days.

2. Do more or less. There are two schools of thought on raking. One is to lighten your load by completing the task weekly. This minimizes the buildup of leaves and reduces the amount of time you spend. The other is to wait until all the leaves fall so you don’t need to repeat the chore. Clear paths and driveways when necessary, but wait until the trees are bare to get down to business. Do what works best for you and your schedule.

The Right Tools

3. Like other yard work activities, you should dress properly to protect yourself. Long pants and sleeves are best. Wearing leather work gloves or canvas gardening gloves prevents blisters. And a dust mask helps keep out dirt and allergens.

4. Using a tarp is a timesaver. It takes less time to rake leaves onto a tarp than to bag them. Use the tarp to collect them, then drag them to the main pile, curb, compost heap, or an out-of-the-way part of the property. An old sheet or canvas drop cloth works well for the job.

5. Choose the right rake. Before you buy a rake, make sure it is comfortable to use. Look for ones that have a comfortable handle and are not too heavy to handle. Ergonomically shaped rakes help alleviate stress on the body. Rakes with metal tines may be more durable, but the plastic ones are lighter to lift. And always go for the wider end to maximize the amount of leaves you get in one sweep.

6. Go where rakes can’t reach. A leaf blower or vacuum gets leaves out of shrubs, corners, or other hard-to-reach places. It’s also great for landscaped areas with mulch or gravel. Leaf blowers for residential areas tend to be less powerful than the commercial types that professionals use, so it might be easier and cheaper to hire a lawn-care company than to purchase one yourself.

More Tips for Raking Leaves this Fall

7. When life gives you leaves, make mulch. Fallen leaves are great for the compost pile and make excellent mulch. In early fall, when the leaves are just starting to drop, you can mow them right back into your lawn. This provides the grass with nutrients and saves you time and effort. Although, it may take more than one pass to get the leaves into small enough pieces. You can also use a mulching mower to bag the leaves for later use.

8. Watch the weather. If you can, choose a dry day with little or no wind. Work with the wind if you can’t avoid it. Wet leaves are harder to rake, so it’s good if it hasn’t rained recently.

9. Divide and conquer. Imagine your yard divided into several smaller sections. You’ll notice your progress a lot quicker. And, if you take frequent breaks or accomplish the task over a few days, picking up where you left off is a lot easier.

A thick layer of leaves left on your lawn for a long time can damage the grass below, making it more difficult to recuperate come springtime. If you have questions about raking leaves this fall, or for expert help with your lawn, call Free Spray Lawn Care at 419-529-5296. We’ll develop a maintenance program that’s tailored to your property’s needs.