Great Tools for Fall Leaf Cleanup

Cleaning up your leaves doesn't have to be backbreaking work. With these five tools, you'll be back inside watching the Lions before you know it!

Big plastic rake

Find a rake that is big enough to move leaves quickly, but not so big that the load gets too heavy for you. Plastic won't break on you like bamboo will, and newer models tend to trap fewer leaves in the tines while you rake. Also look for a rake with a padded handle to prevent blisters and hand fatigue.

Small rake for flowerbeds

This will help you get in between perennials and shrubs to rake without damaging your plants. You can also gently rake leaves out of your shrubs with this tool.

Tarp

This is great for moving your leaves. If you have a compost pile to put your leaves in, simply rake the leaves onto the tarp, and drag the tarp full of leaves to your pile. This eliminates trips back and forth carrying leaves. This is also a good tip for if you have that curbside leaf pick up. This is an easy way to get the leaves from your back yard to your curb in no time.

Bushel basket or garden bag

If you don't have a ton of leaves, you won't need a tarp, but a bushel basket is a great tool for moving leaves to your curb or compost pile. They also make bags in either canvas or plastic that are collapsible, and these are great for this job, too.

Mulching mower

If you really, really hate raking, just chop 'em up with your mower. It might take a couple of passes if you have a lot of leaves, but the work you'll save yourself by not raking will more than make up for it. And all those leaves will enrich your soil, giving you a healthier lawn next spring! ITGO