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allsystemsslow t1_ix47zja wrote

Reply to comment by LordEarArse in How do insects survive winter? How do northenly climates have any insects? by failedtalkshowhost

This is why it’s good to leave your leaves until 7 consecutive 50 f degree days in the spring.

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Fthewigg t1_ix4fgza wrote

I just heard this for the first time. I wanted to do a final mow to clean up the remaining leaves in the yard before winter and I was advised not to for this reason. The early cold sealed the deal: you’re safe from me, bugs.

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Jimbo--- t1_ix6b97m wrote

I'll pick up and mulch the leaves on my lawn, but leave all my planting areas alone. I've got a few acres of woods that the bugs can hang out in, too. The leaves help protect your plants over the winter, too.

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ImNotYourOpportunity t1_ix49a46 wrote

Why is that? Do they live in the leaves or something?

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wishbonesma t1_ix4bnfb wrote

Yep, eggs and larvae often overwinter in fallen leaves, especially if you have trees native to your area.

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Foxs-In-A-Trenchcoat t1_ix4la3l wrote

Yes, if it's at all possible, you should leave a pile of leaves on a corner of your property for native insects to hibernate in.

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ImNotYourOpportunity t1_ix6btau wrote

I hate insects but I do understand their contribution to the eco system so I shall, moving forward, leave out some leaves for my insect homies. Granted, said pile will be far from my actual house but I got a decent amount of yard.

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