Leaves – Removal After Seeding

Q: What’s the best way to remove leaves from a newly seeded lawn? Is it best done with a rake or with a blower or grind them up with the lawnmower?

A: It’s best to shred them with a mower. It may take an extra pass with the mower but your efforts will make the lawn healthier. Earthworms will consume the shredded leaves and excrete them underground, which supplies nutrients and soil aeration. Don’t worry about your mower pulling grass seedlings from the ground as you mow. Once they are an inch or more tall the little plants are well anchored and won’t come up easily.