Yes! In addition to adding winter interest to your yard, the seed heads provide food for birds. And a leaf layer several inches deep is a natural thing in any area where trees naturally grow. Many wildlife species live in or rely on the leaf layer to find food or habitat. Then, when the leaves break down, they provide important nutrients to the soil. So don’t rake or blow your yard bare this year! Learn more from the National Wildlife Federation here.
Invasive Lesser Celandine
This attractive plant with a buttercup-like flower is actually an invasive ground cover called Lesser Celandine that is taking over and choking out everything in its way! It is spreading aggressively in gardens, yards and even forest preserves. As pretty as it is, it should be dug out carefully now as it has many small tubers. (We do not recommend chemical control in most cases.) Do not put it in yard waste bags – this invasive plant should be sent straight to a landfill. It should not be confused with Marsh Marigold or Celandine Poppy, two lovey non-invasive Midwest native alternatives.
