# Why fall yard care could start with doing less

> Leave leaves for pollinators and soil health instead of raking.
- Title: Why fall yard care could start with doing less | Shortify
- Summary: Leave leaves for pollinators and soil health instead of raking. Homeowners can improve soil health and support native pollinators by leaving leaves in place…
- Keywords: fall yard care, native pollinators, soil health, leaf litter, nutrient cycling, winter habitat, tick control, pollinator zones, mulch, science, ideas, fall
- Source: The Conversation — https://theconversation.com/why-fall-yard-care-could-start-with-doing-less-but-not-nothing-293924
- Author: Manjot Kaur Sidhu
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: fall yard care, native pollinators, soil health, leaf litter, nutrient cycling, winter habitat, tick control, pollinator zones, mulch, science, ideas
## Why leaves matter
Leaves on the ground are part of the natural cycle of nutrients.
## Raking harms pollinators
Raking destroys winter nurseries for native bees and other insects.
## Native bees need shelter
Up to 70% of native bee species nest in the ground for winter survival.
## Leaf litter shelters insects
Moths, butterflies, fireflies and ground beetles rely on fallen leaves for winter shelter.
## Leaves insulate soil
Intact leaves act as natural insulation for soil during winter.
## Leaves feed soil
Decaying leaves create humus that boosts soil structure and water retention.
## How to leave leaves
Move leaves to garden beds, skip shredding, and wait for spring to clean up.
## Key takeaway

Homeowners can improve soil health and support native pollinators by leaving leaves in place during fall.