The National Wildlife Federation says there are benefits to letting leaves decompose naturally. Leaves are a natural mulch and fertilizer. Instead of buying mulch, just use the leaves in your yard. Butterflies and songbirds depend on the leaves in your yard. Leaves and yard waste take up a lot of room in landfills, so leaving the leaves where they fall is environmentally friendly. So, even though they might look unsightly, it's good to leave the leaves in your yard.

Here's why you should avoid raking your leaves

Put down the rake and back away from the leaves.

Dry, dead leaves might be unsightly to your neighbors, but they are a great wildlife habitat for a slew of creatures, according to David Mizejewski, a naturalist at the National Wildlife Federation.

In the past, the NWF has reminded people there are benefits to letting leaves decompose naturally.

» 7 under-the-radar OTP Atlanta spots for leaf peeping


Leaving your leaves could save you money

"Leaves are nature's natural mulch and fertilizer," Mizejewski said. "When you rake all the leaves away, you are removing that natural benefit to your garden and lawns — then people turn around and spend money to buy mulch."          


Wildlife depends on your leaves




Leaves and yard waste take up a lot of space in landfills



