Tips To Make Raking A Breeze
Oct 19th 2017
It’s easy to head to the garage or storage shed, grab a rake and get to work in your yard during the fall. After all, the leaves won’t rake themselves, no matter how much we try to will them to. Yet, raking the yard doesn’t have to be an all-weekend project. Make raking leaves an easy part of fall landscaping in Gainesville, FL, with these tips from Evergreen Lawn Care!
Dress For The Job
Gainesville lawn care doesn't have to be uncomfortable as long as you dress for the job of raking. Wear a hat, long-sleeved shirt and long pants to protect your skin from dust, dirt and other debris stirred up while raking. Also, protect your hands from blisters by wearing gloves while raking.
Work With Mother Nature
Mother Nature doesn’t have to be a hindrance to getting the leaves raked. Get a helping hand on a breezy day by raking in the same direction as the wind is blowing. Not every leaf will go along with this, but you’ll be surprised at how much faster the leaves clear this way. If it rains before you can rake, give the leaves a day or two to dry out. Wet leaves clump and weigh down bags that you’ll need to move even more.
The Right Rake Makes All The Difference
Bigger, or wider, is better when it comes to raking leaves. Choose a rake with a tine spread around 30 inches, and if possible, one with a no-clog designation. The angled tines stop leaves from building up and requiring periodic stops to clear them. By using a wider rake, you'll have a Gainesville landscape that stands out in no time and without hassle.
Use The Grid System
Your yard can appear to double in size as you look at it before raking leaves. Divide it into an invisible grid and rake the areas one by one. As you work, save time by raking into rows that can be turned into smaller piles.
Opt For Smaller Piles, Unless You’re Jumping Into The Leaves
Smaller piles are easier to bag up, whether you bag as you work each grid area or wait until the end. But if you choose to wait, they may scatter with a breeze or dampen with rainfall and need to dry out before bagging. A bonus tip to make your Gainesville landscaping easier is to rake the piles onto a tarp and use the tarp as a funnel.
Mulch Your Yard With The Mower
If your yard only has leaves when the wind brings them from the next-door neighbor’s yard, consider mowing during the fall. The blades chop the leaves into finer pieces, even if the mower doesn't have a mulch setting. This creates a great natural mulch that decays into the lawn, adding nutrients for the winter months.
Evergreen Lawn Care Cleans Up Your Leaves With Fall Yard Cleanup
When fall arrives in Florida, many people get busy with school, work and getting ready for the holiday season. If life has you on the go without time for raking, call Evergreen Lawn Care to learn about our fall yard cleanup services. We clear the leaves and aerate the lawn, allowing oxygen, water and nutrients to keep your yard healthy through the winter.
