How Do I Rake Fallen Leaves?

Decide which leaves to target. Some can stay, especially those that are under trees and shrubs. They will waste away and form a natural compost to feed the plants. The mulch improves the tree's health and helps it grow faster.

Choose a rake that will cut your raking time down. There are some clog-free designs on the market, which eliminate some of the frustration of raking leaves. The teeth don't capture leaves as easily as regular rakes. Look for rakes that have padding on the grip, to help prevent blisters.

Start at the farthest point of your yard. Move your feet, raking the leaves straight back. Move with the rake as you move backwards. Moving your feet instead of staying planted in one spot will help your back. Keep your body rigid; don't twist at the trunk as you rake.

Work row-by-row, clearing the leaves as you walk backward. Gather all the removed leaves in one area to help you bag them or transport them later.

Make mulch out of the raked leaves. Rake them to the back of your yard or into a garden. Add other plants such as summer flowers and grass clippings. Pile 1 foot of leaves. Add a layer of dirt and then more leaves. Add water and cottonseed meal to the pile if the leaves are dry. Turn the pile monthly to keep the moisture spread throughout.

Form a big pile with the leaves. Get a plastic bag or paper bag meant for leaves. Open it and fill it with the leaves. To pick up more leaves at a time, pile them on the rake, using the rake like a big shovel. Hold the leaves in place with one hand, and dump the leaves in the bag. Continue until the bags and full. Secure.