The Science Behind “Leave the Leaves“
Episode 111
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Summary
“Leave the leaves” has become an increasingly common mantra each fall. However, until recently little to no scientific research had been done to quantify impacts of leaving your leaves in a typical suburban yard. We discuss the results of that research and actionable steps that you can take in your own yard.
Today’s guest
JimDr. Max Ferlauto is the State Entomologist for the Maryland Natural Heritage Program. He recently conducted research to quantify the impact of leaving our leaves in our yards.
3 things you’ll learn from this episode:
- The impact that leaving your leaves can have on the numbers and diversity of insects and spiders in your yard.
- How removing your leaves can impact soil temperature, moisture, and organic matter.
- Practical, easy steps you can take even if you can’t leave all your leaves.
Bonus content
Resources Max mentioned:
Other Backyard Ecology™ resources:
If you would like personalized help creating your own pollinator and wildlife habitat, then we encourage you to check out the Backyard Ecology™ Community.
There’s lots of great “big picture” information available about creating pollinator gardens or larger habitats for pollinators and wildlife. What’s lacking are opportunities to say, “This is what I want to do. This is what I’m struggling with. How do I make it work on my property?”
That’s part of what the Backyard Ecology™ Community offers its members every day.
Thank you!
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Backyard Ecology™: Creating thriving backyard ecosystems that you can enjoy and be proud of
We created Backyard Ecology™ to help you confidently create pollinator and wildlife habitat that you can enjoy and be proud of. Because nature isn’t just “out there.” It’s all around us, including right outside our doors.
Our focus on the eastern U.S. means that the information we share is applicable to you and where you live. Join us as we ignite our curiosity and natural wonder, explore our yards and communities, and improve our local pollinator and wildlife habitat.
Backyard Ecology™’s Guiding Principles:
🦋 Curiosity: Nature is fun, interesting, and worth exploring. We will never know everything. Answers lead to more questions. That’s half the fun.
🦋 Balanced: You don’t have to choose. You can support nature AND have a beautiful property that you can enjoy and be proud of.
🦋 Science informed: Habitat creation and management should be based on the latest scientific research available. This is true regardless of whether you’re working in a small garden or on hundreds of acres.
🦋 Stewardship: Anyone can make a positive difference in the natural world and leave an ecological legacy on their property.
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