For the annual fall cleanup episode, Sarah and Hanna are joined by David Mizejewski, naturalist with the National Wildlife Federation, to talk about one of the simplest and most impactful garden actions: leaving the leaves. David shares the science behind this seasonal practice, the wildlife it supports, and how “messy” gardens are essential for biodiversity and climate health.
The conversation explores how the fallen leaf layer creates habitat for insects, amphibians, birds, and even bats — and how rethinking our yard cleanup can save money, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and restore ecological balance right at home.
Topics Covered
Why fallen leaves are vital habitat — not “litter”
Saving time, money, and mulch by leaving leaves in place
How removing leaves contributes to climate change via methane
The role of the leaf layer in supporting insects, amphibians, birds, and bats
Simple, realistic ways to “leave the leaves” even with HOA or city rules
How to manage excess leaves through composting, new garden beds, or mulching
Encouraging neighbors to get involved in the Leave the Leaves movement
Wildlife & Plants Mentioned
Trees & Leaves Mentioned:
American Beech (Fagus grandifolia)
Oak (Quercus spp.)
Catalpa (Catalpa speciosa)
Tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera)
Native & Woodland Plants:
Ferns
Foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia)
Woodland goldenrod (Solidago caesia)
Anemones
Wildlife Highlighted:
Fireflies (larvae overwinter in leaf layer)
Bumblebees (queens shelter under leaves)
Moths (overwintering pupae in leaf litter)
Birds — robins, thrashers, quail, turkeys, ovenbirds
Amphibians — frogs, toads, salamanders (especially Cope’s gray tree frog)
Bats — eastern red bats (hibernate in leaves)
Links Mentioned
Past Episode: Herpetology, Episode #73 from 11/10/2024
National Wildlife Federation – Leave the Leaves Campaign: nwf.org/LeaveTheLeaves
Garden for Wildlife: gardenforwildlife.com
Naturalist.org – David Mizejewski’s website
Nebraska Statewide Arboretum: plantnebraska.org
Announcements
- Leave the Leaves Signs – Available online and at fall plant sales.
- Plants & Pints – SOLD OUT a full month in advance! Be sure to mark your calendars early for next year’s October event.
- Awards Season – Watch for announcements and celebrations of Arboretum award winners.
- Plant Talks (Winter Webinar Series) – Send in your topic suggestions now! What do you want a deep dive on? The team is building the schedule.
Links
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