Turn over a new leaf: How to make this fall's raking duties easier

Leaves left on your lawn over the winter will kill the grass, says Connie Thomas of Champaign, who's training to be a Master Gardener. If you have a mulching mower, shred your leaves. They'll decompose over time.

But don't be too quick to pull out the rake. Generally speaking, you'll rake less if you wait for all the leaves to fall.

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