Leaf litter is defined as the layer of dead plant materials, including fallen leaves and twigs, that covers the ground. While it’s common practice to rake and remove leaves in the fall, leaving some leaf litter behind can actually strengthen your lawn’s soil and the many species it supports—from birds and squirrels to essential microorganisms beneath the ground’s surface.
However, homeowners should also be cautious of foliar fungal diseases. If not removed, infected leaves can spread their disease to other nearby trees, causing problems for the seasons ahead.
Here, we’ll dive into the topic of leaf litter and cover its environmental benefits, possible dangers hiding beneath the surface, and how you can keep your Maryland lawn healthy and beautiful this fall.
How Leaf Litter Improves Soil Through the Seasons
Healthy fallen leaves that break off from their trees are rich in organic matter, containing valuable nutrients. Soil benefits from the additional organic matter, particularly in the winter as trees enter dormancy.
Leaf litter can protect the soil by maintaining moisture and temperature levels, thereby preventing winter weather damage and soil drying. The result is a healthier lawn year-round and trees that are strong and capable of surviving freezing weather and temperatures.
Leaf Litter and Wildlife
Along with soil improvements, leaf litter supports small wildlife species that keep our ecosystems running. Life in the Leaf Litter, a booklet published by the Center for Biodiversity and Conservation, explores a diverse range of leaf litter species that support their natural habitats, and vice versa.
Bacteria and fungi, for example, facilitate 80-90% of the decomposition process, turning dead plant and animal matter into soil nutrients. Likewise, earthworms’ travel through soil helps them move nutrients and support surrounding plant growth. Several beetle species undergo metamorphosis within leaf litter and feed on other nearby organisms. And birds and squirrels gather and use leaves as nesting material.
Removing all leaf litter from the ground can disturb many species, which is why sustainable fall lawn care is crucial to maintaining a thriving natural environment.
Fungal Diseases in Leaf Litter
While leaf litter has numerous benefits, there is one significant danger: its ability to hide fungal diseases. When leaves fall and pile up, it can become more difficult to spot fungal diseases, which are common in late summer and early fall. Inspecting your leaves for leaf spots, powdery mildew, and any signs of disease can help you identify problems and take action if needed.
Leaf spots are often caused by fungi, and while they’re not always a concern—many trees are good at tolerating fungi without damage—a significant amount of diseased leaves should be removed from your lawn, especially if you’ve noticed defoliation more than a couple of years in a row. Leaving diseased leaves allows spores to spread to other nearby plants and trees.
If you suspect your trees are infected or have been damaged, contact a tree care specialist for an evaluation. The earlier you recognize signs of tree damage, the quicker you can get professional treatment and revive your trees.
How to Care for Your Lawn in the Fall
At this point, you may be wondering: Should you rake your leaves this fall? The answer depends on exactly how much of your lawn is covered, as well as the appearance of your leaves.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s horticulture department suggests first estimating the percentage of your lawn covered by leaf litter. A small amount, approximately 20%, can be left as is, while a moderate amount, around 50%, could be addressed by mowing rather than raking. Since fallen leaves are organic matter, chopping the leaves with a lawn mower helps them decompose into your soil.
If more than 50% of your lawn is covered in leaf litter, or if the layer is especially thick, it may be time to rake and remove some. Too much leaf litter runs the risk of excessive moisture beneath the surface, a potential breeding ground for harmful fungi.
The above recommendations are specifically for healthy tree leaves. Again, take the time to inspect your trees and their leaves, and consult an arborist if you have any concerns.
Other fall tree care to consider implementing before winter arrives:
- Prune your trees to prevent the spread of disease and conserve nutrients. This task is best left to a tree care specialist with expert pruning skills and professional-grade tools.
- Assess for instability. Will your trees withstand winter storm weather well? If you have doubts—for example, if a tree is leaning or its base looks unsteady—book an assessment from a specialist.
- Fertilize your soil to replenish nutrients for the upcoming winter season.
For Fungal Disease Control, Call Baker Tree Services
Suspect your trees have a pest or disease problem? Baker Tree Services is just a call away. Local and family-operated, our tree care company serves as your one-stop shop for anything tree-related in Western Maryland. Our team consists of ISA-certified arborists and tree climbers who have raised the standard for tree care service since 2003.
Whether it’s one single tree or an entire forest, Baker Tree Services is committed to providing personalized care and tailored solutions that cater to the unique needs of your property. Contact us today at 240-288-7223.