You may already have a rake or two on hand for maintaining your lawn and dealing with fallen leaves. These tools are also useful when preparing ornamental or vegetable garden beds for planting.

Chambers also recommends using a rake or spade to dig out decomposing leaves or roots from last year’s harvest. U of A horticulturalist Duncan Giedelhauf says after raking, the rotted plant ...

In the fall, homeowners are urged to “leave the leaves.” This recommendation is to accomplish at least two beneficial goals: Keep leaves and yard waste out of landfills and provide over wintering ...