Seasonal Yard Care

Leave your grass clippings on the lawn whenever possible. Mulching mowers and mulching attachments for mowers reduce the size of grass clippings, thus increasing the rate at which they decompose. Mowing on a regular basis with a sharp mower blade produces clippings that decompose fairly quickly. They do not contribute to thatch build-up because when they decompose they become a valuable organic source of nutrients for grass plants. In fact, yearly nitrogen applications may be reduced by 1/3 to 1/2 when grass clippings are left on the lawn.

Keep leaves, grass, branches and other debris out of the street. Some cities pick up yard waste from residents during the fall. Others have compost facilities where you can bring your yard waste. You can also use your own compost bin or pile to create rich gardening soil for next year.

Learn more about composting.

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Fall Yard Care Media Packet

Water resource managers have long noted an increase in phosphorus runoff from city neighborhoods during the fall season – the suspected source being tree leaves falling into the street. Phosphorus is the nutrient that spurs algae growth in lakes, making them look and smell bad and reducing our swimming and boating enjoyment.

City residents and property managers can reduce phosphorus runoff by raking or sweeping streets clean of leaves. What’s in the street can go down the storm drain and into our waters!

Leaves and grass clippings can be composted on site, or taken to a community yard waste collection center.

• Fall tip sheet - October 2009
• Talking points – August 2005
• Flyer – August 2005
• Newspaper Ad – August 2003
• Illustrations