Question 1

What’s the difference between a leaf blower and a leaf shredder?

Accepted Answer

A leaf blower propels air out of a nozzle to move leaves and grass cuttings into manageable piles that you can then shred and mulch with a leaf shredder/mulcher. If you're wondering which one you need for your yard, the answer is both: a leaf blower will help you clean up your garden waste and debris in no time, while a shredder will help get rid of those piles and create mulch for your garden.

Question 2

Do leaf shredders work on pine needles?

Accepted Answer

Most leaf shredders work well on a variety of yard debris, including leaves, twigs, small branches, and yes, pine needles and even pine cones. They are ideal for creating mulch which you can then use around trees and shrubs to help prevent weeds, protect plants from frost, and slow moisture evaporation.

Question 3

Are mulched leaves good for compost?

Accepted Answer

Yes, leaf mulch is great for compost! As long as you shred your leaf pile (ideally shortly after the leaves have fallen from the trees) and mix it with a green source of nitrogen, it will make for excellent natural compost.

Question 4

Why do we need to dry the leaves before shredding?

Accepted Answer

You don't necessarily need to wait for the leaves to dry before you shred them, but it is recommended you do just that with most units. This is because shredding works best and fastest when leaves are dry, crisp, and brittle. Damp or green leaves and grass clippings can clog the blades of some electric leaf mulchers.

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