More Than Clean-Up: How Leaf Removal Protects Your Landscape Investment

Fall is in full swing here in the Carolinas, and with it comes a steady blanket of leaves as trees prepare for winter. While the seasonal color is beautiful, it can also create costly and potentially dangerous challenges for commercial properties. From slip-and-fall risks to long-term turf damage, routine leaf removal is an essential part of protecting both your landscape and your patrons. 

GreenView’s Turf & Horticulture Manager, Paul Blessing, explains why it’s important to keep leaves off turf areas: 

“Why should I rake or blow the leaves off my lawn? I hear this question often. The simple answer is that too many leaves can damage the grass. Heavy leaf coverage blocks sunlight, which turf needs to survive. Excessive leaf buildup also traps moisture that can lead to root rot and disease. Over time, a thick layer of leaves keeps soil temperatures lower and slows down spring green-up.” 

Beyond turf health, unmanaged leaves can create safety concerns for commercial sites. Wet or compacted leaves make sidewalks, parking lots, and entryways slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. Leaves that clog drains may also cause standing water or erosion, which can lead to further maintenance issues. 

Branch Manager Benbury Ellington highlights the safety impact for property managers: 

“Keeping walkways and high-traffic areas clear isn’t just about maintaining a clean appearance. It’s an important part of ensuring the safety of everyone who visits your property. Regular leaf removal reduces slip hazards and helps keep your site accessible throughout the season.” 

For heavy accumulations, collection and composting are often the most effective solutions.

At GreenView, collected leaves are transported to Wake County’s processing centers, where they are converted into compost, mulch, and other soil-enhancing materials. This supports both landscape health and local sustainability efforts. 

In some cases, leaves can be redirected into natural wooded areas, where they break down naturally, create habitat for wildlife, and return nutrients to the soil. Leaves may be a beautiful sign of the season, but they also require careful management.

With a proactive approach, property managers can keep their landscapes healthy, safe, and looking their best throughout the fall.