{
  "id": 12592704,
  "title": "Don’t clear those fallen leaves: The free fall hack that stops weeds in their tracks",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/07/dont-clear-those-fallen-leaves-the-free-fall-hack-that-stops-weeds-in",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-07T09:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Tom's Guide",
    "slug": "tom-s-guide",
    "url": "https://www.tomsguide.com/home/gardening/dont-clear-those-fallen-leaves-the-free-fall-hack-that-stops-weeds-in-their-tracks"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Don't clear fallen leaves from your lawn, suggests an expert. Craig Wilson, co-founder and garden expert at Gardeners Dream, advises against raking leaves and discarding them in the garden trash. Instead, he recommends shredding them into a natural mulch to spread around plants to prevent weeds. Wilson explains that shredding leaves makes them break down more easily and reduces the risk of forming a thick, compacted layer that can harm plants. The smaller pieces are easier to spread around flower beds and established plants, and they break down more readily than whole leaves. Shredded leaves also help retain moisture and regulate temperature, benefiting the soil. To shred leaves, Wilson recommends waiting for them to dry out before using a lawnmower. Using a cordless lawn mower with Intellicut technology can help cut through the leaves effectively.",
  "summary": "Think twice before clearing fallen leaves : A garden expert shares how you can put them to good use in your yard.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}