Leaf It

A large tree with vibrant yellow autumn leaves stands in a park, with the sun shining through its branches. A picnic table is visible in the foreground.

In efforts towards making our community more sustainable, we are encouraging City of La Crosse residents to mulch their leaves and embrace the benefits of mulching in one’s yard. When leaves are shredded, it makes it easier for worms to break them down and return nutrients to the soil quicker. 

By registering for Leaf It, you commit to practicing sustainable lawncare practices this fall season, and mulching your lawn leaves! A limited quantity of yard signs are available to those who register for the Leaf It Program and will be available for pick up at the City of La Crosse, 400 La Crosse Street while supplies last, and only during the duration of this program.

Register for Leaf It

Mulching

Rather than laboring away raking leaves, go over the leaves with a mower and mulch them. This returns nutrients to the ground and boosts next spring’s growth. In addition, the City will have smaller demand for leaf collection, which will further the efforts in cutting back on carbon emissions.

We have developed a Sustainable Initiative to encourage the use of mulching and other sustainable practices. Thank you for participating in mulching this year and supporting the initiative through the survey and display of "Leaf it" yard signs this fall. 

How to Mulch

Set the mower height to about three inches and mow overdryleaves. You may need to go over them more than once, until they are about the size of a dime. Be sure they are evenly spread and grass blades can be seen poking through the layer of mulch. If it is too thick sprinkle some in garden beds or around flowers.

Resources:

Wisconsin DNR: Fall Yard Care Tips
Wisconsin DNR: Composting in Wisconsin
Wisconsin DNR: Reducing Food Waste

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