Are you itching to get out in your yard to clean up and start planting? DON’T! There are good reasons to let the winter leaves lie just a little longer. Leaving plant debris in place acts as a natural mulch and helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health as it decomposes. Also, many pollinators like butterflies, bees, and moths spend their winter in garden debris like dead leaves, hollow stems, and other plant matter. Leaf litter and plant stems provide a home and food source for ladybugs and lacewings, which help control garden pests. Removing the debris too early can disrupt their life cycles and leave them without an appropriate habitat. By delaying spring cleanup outside, you provide a safe haven for these pollinators to emerge naturally when the weather is suitable.
So, when should you go ahead and break out the rakes? Experts recommend waiting until there is a week of consistent temperatures of 50°F or above before starting your garden cleanup. If you must clean up before then, consider loosely piling debris or leaving some stems in place. The bees and ladybugs will thank you!