In November, leaf cleanup is in full swing for the Castro Valley area. That means it is time to get out the leaf blower, the rake, and a number of garden bags and start preparing for the winter months.

Clearing leaves off your lawn will prevent lawn damage. A thick layer of leaves can smother grass, block sunlight and moisture and lead to disease or dead spots. Removing the leaves is essential for a healthy spring lawn.

Leave the Leaves on your garden beds and in wooded areas to act as a natural mulch, helping to retain moisture and replenish the soil as they decompose. This also creates a vital habitat for insects and lizards.

Clean your gutters- NOW, before the rainy weather arrives. The weight of waterlogged leaves or frozen leaves will weaken and damage your gutters over time. As leaves collect in the gutters, they will clog the gutters causing water to back up and create dams. Not only will you have a gutter waterfall, it can damage your roof or water may be forced into your home.

The final decision is what to do with the leaves. Will you rake or blow them into piles to bag them to put into your garden waste can, or will you grind them into small pieces with your mulching mower to spread in your garden beds to decompose, creating a nutrient rich compost.