Growing and Mowing: Caring for Lawns Under Forest Trees

Growing and Mowing: Caring for Lawns Under Forest Trees
Whenever you see lawns under old forest trees, you are looking at a stressed ecosystem. Elena Elisseeva/Shutterstock
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Q: Our backyard woods comprise oaks and other deciduous trees, so our leaf cleanup is constant every year. Over two decades, I have used every form of leaf removal. I have used my mower to mulch the leaves sometimes but have heard conflicting opinions on this.

Some say it’s good for the soil and grassroot systems (protected from the Virginia winter cold), and others say its buildup suffocates the grassroots. It’s easier to mow it, so I prefer that method, but not at the expense of the grass health.

Jeff Rugg
Jeff Rugg
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