Leaving the Garden Messy in Fall Benefits

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Wondering whether you should clean up and cut back the beds this fall or leave it until spring? Here are 7 reasons to leave it messy this fall.

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It’s a good idea to leave your perennials and annuals until the following spring. This might seem counterintuitive but there are several compelling reasons to embrace a more relaxed approach to tidiness as the autumn season arrives.

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Wildlife Habitat: Allowing some plants to remain standing and leaving leaf litter can provide valuable habitat for wildlife. Many insects and small animals, including beneficial pollinators and birds, rely on these materials for shelter and as overwintering sites.

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Natural Mulch: Fallen leaves, spent flower heads, and plant debris create a natural mulch that can protect your garden’s soil from erosion and temperature extremes. As these materials break down over time, they enrich the soil with organic matter, benefiting your plants in the long run.

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Seeds for Wildlife: Some plants produce seeds in the fall that are essential food sources for birds and other creatures during the colder months.

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Winter Interest: Dried seed heads, ornamental grasses, and certain plants can add unique texture and visual interest to your garden during the winter months. These elements create a winter landscape that is both captivating and ethereal.

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Reduced Stress: Allowing yourself to leave the garden a bit untidy can reduce the stress of maintaining a perfectly manicured space year-round. Fall is a time to relax and enjoy the changing seasons, and a slightly messy garden can reflect that sense of ease.

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Time and Resource Savings: Not meticulously cleaning up every fallen leaf or cutting down every dead stem can save you time and energy. It’s a more low-maintenance approach that still promotes a healthy garden environment.

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Follow along to learn more about ways to improve your garden in fall.

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