As summer winds down and fall approaches, it’s time to start thinking about the inevitable fall cleanup. From raking leaves to prepping your yard for winter, this seasonal chore can be daunting. But with a few smart strategies, you can make the process quicker and less frustrating. Here’s how to breeze through your fall cleanup and enjoy the season.
Make Fall Cleanup a Family Affair
Turn fall cleanup into a fun family project by setting aside a dedicated day for everyone to pitch in. Assign specific tasks to each family member to lighten the load and spend some quality time together. You’ll get the job done faster and create memories in the process.
Invest in Leaf Scoops
Consider purchasing oversized leaf scoops to make collecting leaves a breeze. These handy tools allow you to pick up large piles of leaves, as well as smaller debris like pine needles, with ease. You can find them online for around $15 at Gardener’s Supply Company.
Upgrade to a Snake Rake
Say goodbye to backaches with a snake rake, an ergonomic tool featuring offset handles and adjustable length. This modern rake is designed to reduce strain and make raking more comfortable. Available on Amazon, it’s a small investment for big relief.
Choose Eco-Friendly Cleanup Options
Ditch disposable bags in favor of reusable, sturdy plastic bags for leaf collection. These eco-friendly options are often collapsible for easy storage, making them both practical and environmentally conscious.
Rake Smarter, Not Harder
Save yourself some hassle by raking downhill and with the wind. Working with gravity and nature’s forces can make the task much easier and less time-consuming.
Tidy Up the Garden
Give your garden some attention by removing dead annuals and cutting back perennials. This will help your plants prepare for winter hibernation and keep your garden looking tidy throughout the colder months.
Wait for Dry Leaves
Hold off on raking or blowing leaves until they’re dry. Dry leaves are lighter and easier to manage, while wet leaves tend to stick to everything, making the task more difficult.
Compost Your Leaves
Instead of bagging leaves, consider using a shredding or mulching mower to turn them into compost or mulch. This method saves time and benefits your garden. Mow over the leaves several times to shred them, then mix with a nitrogen source like grass clippings in a compost bin. Remember to keep the compost pile damp and turn it every few weeks for best results.
Use a Tarp for Easy Cleanup
Rake leaves directly onto a tarp for a faster, more efficient cleanup. Once the tarp is full, simply drag it to your curb for city pickup. This method is quicker than bagging and makes transporting leaves easier.
Fall cleanup is a necessary part of yard maintenance, but with these tips, you can make it a manageable task. You don’t need to break the bank to simplify your fall chores—just follow these strategies and enjoy more free time this autumn.
For more tips on efficient fall cleanup and to find all the equipment you need, visit Snappy’s Outdoor Equipment at 2120 N. Dixie Highway, Lima, OH. We’ve got everything to make your fall cleanup a breeze!
