From Birds and Blooms · Emily Hannemann · · 40s
When to Rake Leaves
Leave leaves for insects and soil health in spring.
In brief
Leave leaves for insects and soil health in spring. Horticultural expert Melinda Myers advises leaving leaves in gardens year-round to shelter insects, insulate roots, and improve soil. Originally reported by Birds and Blooms.
Best Time to Rake Leaves
Horticultural expert Melinda Myers says leave leaves in gardens year-round for soil health and insect shelter.
“Leave those leaves in the garden year-round. They not only support pollinators but also insulate plant roots from extreme heat and cold.”
Perennials Care Tips
Wait for temperatures in the 50s before cutting back perennials; leave stems 8 to 24 inches tall for native bees.
“Also consider waiting until temperatures hover in the 50s before cutting back any perennials. If you can’t wait that long, cut back the stems and stack them out of sight to allow any remaining insects time to exit. Leave some stems 8 to 24 inches tall to provide homes for some of our native bees.”
Critters in Leaf Litter
Woolly bear caterpillars and butterflies use leaves for shelter during cold months.
“Leaving leaves in your garden and yard helps many overwintering bugs and pollinators stay warm when temperatures drop.”
At a glance
Horticultural expert Melinda Myers advises leaving leaves in gardens year-round to shelter insects, insulate roots, and improve soil.
