492-What Science Says About Leaving the Leaves
492-What Science Says About Leaving the Leaves  
Podcast: The joe gardener Show - Organic Gardening - Vegetable Gardening - Expert Garden Advice From Joe Lamp'l
Published On: Thu Oct 22 2026
Description: Raking, blowing and removing fallen leaves is a familiar ritual for many homeowners, but the practice is more harmful than many realize. This week, I'm joined by Dr. Max Ferlauto, a state entomologist with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, to explore the science behind the "Leave the Leaves" movement. His research reveals how leaf removal reduces the number of insects that survive the winter — with consequences that ripple through the food web.  Podcast Links for Show Notes Download my free eBook 5 Steps to Your Best Garden Ever - the 5 most important steps anyone can do to have a thriving garden or landscape. It's what I still do today, without exception to get incredible results, even in the most challenging conditions. Subscribe to the joegardener® email list to receive weekly updates about new podcast episodes, seasonal gardening tips, and online gardening course announcements. Check out The joegardener® Online Gardening Academy for our growing library of organic gardening courses. Follow joegardener® on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter, and subscribe to The joegardenerTV YouTube channel.