A primer on gathering, using your yard's leaves
Mary Beth Breckinridge
MCT News Service
November 08, 2009 06:02 AM
You could be called the lawn Luddites.
You're the holdouts who shun leaf blowers and lawn vacuums, the hardy types who find satisfaction in the scrape of tines on grass.
You're the leaf rakers, and we salute you.
We'd also like to make your job a little easier and your backs less sore. We're here with tips on the right equipment, the proper technique and some ideas about what to do with the fruits of your labor - the leaves.
What feels good
Let's start with the rake.
Leaf rakes come in a variety of sizes, but unlike a lawn-mower blade, wider isn't necessarily better, said Jim Maffei, senior product manager for tool maker Ames True Temper in Camp Hill, Pa.
That's because "you're the motor," Maffei said. A bigger rake produces more friction with each sweep, he explained, and that additional friction tires you faster.
He recommended choosing a rake based on your strength and what feels good. A medium-size rake - about 24 inches - is best for most people.
Rakes typically have tines made from one of three materials: bamboo, metal or plastic. For many users, Maffei believes a plastic rake is the best choice. It's flexible and lightweight, but it's more durable than bamboo.
Metal rakes are the most durable, and their tines are stiffer than plastic or bamboo. They're a good choice if you rake often, rake mostly wet leaves or will be using the rake to dig down into the grass and remove debris other than leaves.
p. 1/4
(Image: Gannett file photo)
> Next Page
- Anyone can make pie from scratch for Thanksgiving
- Community birth announcements
Copyright (c) 2009
lsj.com
