Get rid of the fallen leaves with these tactics
Those trees that provided welcome shade and relaxation during the summer are ready to drop those leaves and make a lot of work for you. But the right tools can help.
Leaf blowers are ideal for swiftly tackling larger spaces and can be excellent for clearing driveways, patios, and walkways of leaves or dirt.
Leaf vacuums are great for turning debris into something useful. Most leaf vacuums mulch and they gather leaves. Mulched leaves can protect plants in the garden. They can also fill holes. Muddy low spots can be packed with mulched leaves, which will soak up water and eliminate mud.
Mow and mulch. If leaves aren't too deep, mowing with a mulching lawn mower blade is a good choice. After you chop them up, it's OK to leave them on the grass. Mulched leaves are good for grass, says Michigan State University.
Deeper leaves in an area can be mulched by going over them a few times. You have to spread the mulch with a rake so it's not too deep.
If you are going old school and plan to rake leaves, occupational therapists recommend warming up and stretching before starting. Take short strokes so you don't reach as far. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons suggests wearing gloves to prevent blisters and bending at the knees rather than the waist.
Avoid twisting motions while raking, which could injure your back, and take extra care when leaves are wet or slippery.
To bag leaves, rake the stack onto an old sheet or a tarp, then dump the stack into a leaf bag.