Sustainable Fall Yard Care: From Leaves to Lawn
September 5, 2025
Fall is the perfect season to take environmentally friendly steps for a healthier, sustainable yard.
Plant native for birds and bees. Replace some of your lawn with native ground cover, wildflower gardens and native trees. Leave seeds and flower stalks up to help birds and bees make it through the winter. Learn more at rockvillemd.gov/ backyardhabitats.
Leave the leaves for butterflies. Did you know that most native butterfly species do not migrate? They hibernate in leaves. Leave some leaves where they fall in garden beds or in a wild portion of your yard. Fallen leaves also help prevent weeds and protect the soil.
Ditch the lawn chemicals. Prep your lawn for winter by aerating the soil and adding grass seed. Remember, most weed and feed and synthetic pesticides are prohibited in Rockville. Learn more about organic lawn care at montgomerycountymd.gov/lawns.
Stay alert and report non-native invasive pests, including:
Spotted lanternfly. In late September, these colorful pests begin laying egg masses that look like grayish, mud-like smears. You can help reduce the population by destroying egg masses found on trees, outdoor furniture, vehicles and elsewhere. Learn more at mda.maryland.gov/plants-pests/pages/spotted-lantern-fly.aspx.
Box tree moth. This moth is new to Maryland, feeds exclusively on boxwoods and can completely defoliate and kill the shrubs, so early detection is critical. Check boxwoods for damage, caterpillars or webbing. For photos and tips on reporting, visit extension.umd.edu/resource/box-tree-moth.