Key Takeaways

A thin layer of leaves can insulate soil, support helpful insects, and boost plant health—just keep it under three inches and clear around stems.

Thick, soggy leaves can smother plants or grow mold, so break them up or thin them before using as mulch.

Remove or shred leaves from black walnut or waxy trees like oak and beech, as they can harm plants or form dense mats.

When the first big pile of leaves gathers on your raised or in-ground garden beds , a common instinct is to rake them up so you have a clean slate before winter arrives. After all, neat garden beds look better, and no one wants to risk smothering their plants under a soggy mess.

But that decision isn’t always straightforward. Research shows that leaving certain types of leaves in place can actually benefi

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