Fallen Leaves—Wonder Wedneday

Photo courtesy of beesponsible.

It's WONDER Wednesday!

This week's WONDER is the magic of fallen leaves. What we're about to share gives you full permission to ditch that leaf blower! #LeavetheLeaves is a movement that benefits people (less yardwork!) and wildlife (more habitat!). 

HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
🍂 🍂 🍂

•  This time of year in Northern Michigan, we are reminded what Fall is really about–FALLen leaves! No sooner have we dutifully raked a nice tidy pile, then a wicked wind kicks them up and artfully redistributes them on our lawn before we can bag 'em. And the trees keep on dropping without a care for our landscaping goals!

• But did you know that fallen leaves serve an important purpose for amphibians, insects, birds and small mammals? This natural material provides them with a microhabitat, food sources and an overwintering shelter. The wooly bear caterpillars that came out in the warmer weather earlier this month are now scurrying–ok, crawling as fast as they can–to find a place to spend the winter. Native bees, too! That pile of leaves in your yard may be just the ticket!

• Two more perks of fallen leaves: the disintegrating materials give your grass vital nutrients and also act as a net to keep waste out of landfills.

  You heard it here: leave those leaves!