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Five fa cleanup hacks. LEAF-RAKING LESSONS Raking leaves is a necessary autumn chore, but it doesn't have to be a tedious task. With our strategies, tips, and techniques, you can make raking a breeze—and have more time to enjoy the crisp air and colorful foliage. Get ready to uncover secrets to help you conquer your yard with confidence this fall. UPKEEP 8 COMING HOME MAGAZINE 1. Choose your rake wisely. The first step to successful leaf raking is selecting the best tool for the job. Not all rakes are equal, and you'll need to think about the size and terrain of your yard when weighing your options. While a wide, fan-shaped rake is ideal for large, open spaces, a narrower rake may be easier to maneuver in tight corners and around obstacles. Nevertheless, opt for a lightweight rake to reduce strain on your wrists and back, and consider investing in one with flexible, "no-clog" tines to quickly gather and remove leaves. Time it right. Timing is everything. If possible, wait until trees and shrubs have shed most of their leaves to avoid doing the same work twice. Always rake before the first frost or snowfall of the season on a clear day, and ensure the leaves are dry. Excessive fallen leaf matter or wet or dew-drenched leaves can smother grass and inhibit growth of a winter lawn. Take advantage of the wind. Did you know you can harness the power of nature to simplify this daunting endeavor? If you're tackling the duty on a blustery day, rake leaves in the direction the wind is blowing. Start at the downwind edge of your yard and make your way toward the opposite end, letting the gusts carry leaves along as you rake. When you go with the wind, you won't expend as much energy, and leaves won't blow back into areas you've already cleaned. Use a tarp. Instead of raking leaves into piles and bagging them as you go, rake the leaves onto a tarp. You can drag the tarp around and save bagging or disposing of leaves until the very end. Plus, if your raking stretches over multiple days (we get busy, it happens), you can tie the tarp shut so leaves won't escape. Divide and conquer. Staring at a yard full of leaves can be overwhelming. However, dividing your yard into sections can make raking more manageable. Begin with high-traffic spots, such as walkways, driveways, and patios. Then, separate the bulk of your yard into quadrants, raking the leaves in each quadrant into rows. By focusing on smaller parts and planning a grid, you'll stay motivated and make steady progress in achieving a leaf-free lawn. 2. 3. 4. 5.