The urge to clean up your garden may be strong but RESIST! Leaving your yard looking “untidy” in the fall and winter isn’t neglect but respecting nature. Ignoring fall garden chores benefits wildlife and soil health, briefly here are some reasons why:
Leave the dead seed heads – no need to deadhead, the seeds are food for overwintering birds and will help re-seed your garden for next year!
Keep perennial plant stalks tall – many insects overwinter in the hollow stems of perennials. If you must cut them, try to leave them at least 12 inches tall.
Fall leaves – leaves help soil and are home to overwintering insects – read more. If you must clean up the leaves, rake them into the edges of your property. Avoid leaf blowers and throwing leaves in garbage.
Brush piles – if you have downed sticks and branches, pile them away to create habitat for birds and other wildlife – read more
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