Blog by Betsy Buxton
It’s been a while since I last wrote from Weedy Acres, and I hope you remember me. The wind is still blowing and the weeds are still thriving, BUT something new! As I looked out the window for inspiration, what should I spot but a bloom on my Star magnolia (Magnolia stellata)! I know, it bloomed earlier in the spring before the leaves appeared – a rebloom? I was told years ago that plants can’t read, or in this case, tell what month it is. But it’s pretty to look at and a sign that all is well.
Speaking of leaves and wind, we all know that with the high temperatures and wind right now, those very leaves will be falling soon. What will you do, grab a rake and pick up those leaves – a job, everyone “loves” to do, OR will you follow some easier suggestions?
The latest from a few gardening magazines and some gardening articles is to leave them be. Fallen leaves help provide insulation, help keep in moisture, and act as hunting grounds for birds. They also help with keeping carbon in the soil! If you have a lawn or HOA regulations, you can rake the leaves under trees or move them into beds as several of our spring flowers, ferns, and sedges are compatible with having leaves around and lightly over them. Rocks and small branches can be used to keep them in place.
Also, many caterpillars go through a “wandering” stage, and those leaves give them a place to pupate, other than under your plants. Native grasses, the leaves, and sunny bare ground can serve as “destinations” and provide a variety of options to support a greater variety of insects in the garden.
It has been noticed that shredding the leaves can and does affect some butterflies and moths, for reasons as yet unknown, and their numbers in the garden decline. If you do shed fallen leaves, please leave some intact – some garden insects will thank you!
Having less leaf raking to do throughout the year will gladden the hearts of some family members –mainly teenagers and husbands who don’t like to garden!
Enjoy your day!