Mulching Leaves

• Mulching leaves is most effective when you use a mulching or reel mower and mow frequently. If you have a light cover of leaves, simply run over them with the lawn mower. A thick cover of leaves may require raking some of the excess.
  
  

Homeowner Benefits

• Mowing leaves helps improve the soil and it's easier than raking and blowing. According to the Ohio State University Extension, some leaves have an herbicidal effect, helping to control broadleaf weeds like dandelions.
  
  

Community Benefits

• Mulching leaves reduces the cost of leaf removal and disposal, and reduces the amount of waste in municipal landfills. Leaves raked to the curb leach phosphorus into storm drains where it eventually ends up in lakes and rivers. When mulched leaves are left on the lawn, the soil absorbs the phosphorus.