Norfolk County has begun collecting leaf bags this week but raking leaves is one of those fall chores many residents would rather avoid.
There may be an easier way to deal with them, according to gardening expert Mark Cullen.
He says homeowners can save time, effort and money by skipping the traditional pile, bag and dispose method.
Instead, he suggests putting the leaves in a pile or composter and letting them break down naturally.
As the leaves decompose, they add organic matter and nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium and potassium back into the soil.
That means what might normally end up as yard waste can instead become something useful for the garden.
Something to think about as the leaves fall and colder weather looms.
