Leave the Leaves
New Research Shows Why Insects Depend on Them
Gardeners and habitat managers have long known that fallen leaves are more than just “yard waste.” Now, research confirms it: leaf litter in garden beds is vital habitat for insects year-round. Whether it’s fall, spring, or summer, clearing leaves strips away the shelter, food, and breeding sites that countless invertebrates rely on.
Key Findings from the Study
- 17% fewer insects emerged in spring where leaves were removed.
- Butterfly & moth richness dropped by 40%.
- Spiders were hardest hit, with up to 67% fewer compared to leaf-covered plots.
- On average, 18,000 insects emerged per square meter of garden bed when leaves were left in place.
The takeaway? There’s no good time to clear your beds—insects use leaves year-round. Unless leaves form a dense mat that prevents plants from growing through, letting them stay supports pollinators, beneficial beetles, spiders, and the biodiversity that keeps ecosystems resilient.