You've spent the summer making your landscaping stand out in the neighborhood, and now is not the time to let your efforts slack for the season. As the leaves change colors and start to fall from the trees, the following are some valuable tools that our agents recommend. Each of these will make cleaning them up a little easier so that you can enjoy the view of your landscape throughout the seasons ahead.
Leaf Blower
These come in all shapes and sizes, but the basic premise is the same across the board. Each uses a steady stream of air to push your leaves around so that you can pile and pick them up. If you have a larger landscape, be sure to choose a leaf blower with a cord, as the battery-powered versions will most likely run out of juice before the job is done.
Fan Rake
Don't try and use a garden rake to rake your leaves. You'll tear up your lawn, and it will take forever. Instead, reach for a fan rake. The gentle tines and fan design will grab the leaves and leave your grass intact.
Garden Claw
This simple hand tool makes it a breeze to remove leaves from around plants and masonry.
Leaf Vacuum
Make racking leaves less of a chore by getting yourself a leaf vacuum to get the job done. Leaf vacuums are ideal for getting leaves out of hard-to-reach (and hard-to-rake) spots.
Grabber Rake
Grabber rakes work similarly to salad tongs. Simply drop the rake into the pile of leaves and pick them up. This is a fabulous tool that will make the task a lot easier on your back.
"Leaf Gulp"
This branded product has many off-brand versions, and they all accomplish the same thing: They hold the bag open so you can rake the leaves in with both hands on the rake. This makes the task easier and means you don't have to fumble through this critical step in the leaf removal process.
Roof Brush
A gentle roof brush with a long handle will make it easy to get the leaves off the roof and out of the eaves. Don't forget to do this as leaves that clog your gutters can cause water to overflow and seep under your shingles, and no one wants to start the spring off with a list of costly roof repairs.
Composters
Already turning your thoughts toward next spring? If you are, then put a composter or two in your backyard. Mixing your carbon-rich leaves with grass clippings, paper, food waste, etc., will give you nutrient-rich compost that will kick-start your garden when the weather warms up.
Leaf Mulcher/Shredder
If you do intend to compost your leaves, shred them first. This will expedite the decomposition process. Alternatively, it's also helpful in reducing the total number of bags you'll need to fill before placing them on the curb on trash day.
Mulching Mower
Want to enhance the soil beneath your grass? Buy a mulching mower and shred those leaves right into the soil. It will make clean-up easier and add nutrients that will make the neighbors green with envy next summer.
Gloves
Don't forget to get yourself a hefty pair of garden gloves! They'll make everything from raking leaves to pulling weeds easier and gentler on your hands.
Is it time to make your move and explore some of the fabulous Ridgewood homes for sale this fall? Contact us, and we'll show you some of the amazing houses available in the community.
