Can I use my grass clippings and leaves as mulch instead of disposing of them?

Yes, grass clippings and leaves can be excellent mulch for your garden. They help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and add nutrients back into the soil as they decompose.

What is composting and how does it help in reducing yard waste?

Composting is the process of recycling organic matter, such as leaves and vegetable scraps, into a rich soil amendment. By composting, you reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and create a beneficial product for your garden.

How can I reduce the amount of yard waste during landscaping projects?

Plan your landscaping projects carefully to minimize excess materials. Purchase only what you need, repurpose materials whenever possible, and choose plants that have less pruning requirements.

What should I do with large branches and tree trimmings?

For larger items like branches and tree trimmings that can't be composted, consider hiring a chipping service to turn them into mulch, or see if your local waste management facility has a drop-off point for such waste.

Tips for Minimizing Yard Waste

July 14, 2021

Now that you're enjoying more time spent outdoors, you're probably starting to notice just how much yard waste has accumulated in your absence. Leaves, twigs, dead flowers, and plants... Getting your hands into the soil again means you're adding to the mess by pulling weeds, pruning, and mowing the lawn.

Is Your Yard Waste Hosting Unwelcome Visitors?

You may be tempted to try and clean up the mess yourself, but you might want to reconsider. Piles of leaves or brush provide cozy homes for unwelcome visitors like rodents and snakes. You certainly don't want to discover a nest of venomous copperheads while picking up that pile of leaves!

Piles of leaves and brush are the perfect hangout for disease-carrying ticks, too. In fact, anywhere that's dark and moist is an ideal tick hideout. Let's see, that includes heaps of moldering leaves, weed piles, freshly mown grass, that overzealous pruning you did... Well, you get the picture!

Handling Yard Waste in North Carolina

Unless your landscaping consists entirely of concrete or stone, you're bound to have yard waste. What to do with all that mess? You can't just dump it into the bin with your regular trash. There are specific requirements for yard waste removal.

It's usually not included with your regular trash collection.
You'll need a separate bin used only for yard waste.
There are rules to follow regarding how it's bagged or bundled for disposal.
There might be only a few specific days a year when it's picked up.
It's generally considered an additional service — and that usually involves an additional fee!

When To Call for Professional Help

If you have more than a few stray twigs to pick up, you may need professional help.

A professional yard waste removal company will have the tools, specialized equipment, and large truck needed.
Hiring a team of experts means you can start enjoying your yard sooner.
A clean and debris-free yard is safer and more inviting.
Your yard waste will be disposed of in an appropriate and environmentally friendly manner.

Let the Count Come to Your Rescue!

At Count Junkula, our purple trucks will make quick work of removing your Greater Charlotte and Greater Raleigh, North Carolina yard waste. Contact the Count to schedule an appointment today!

Frequently ASked questions

Can I use my grass clippings and leaves as mulch instead of disposing of them?

Yes, grass clippings and leaves can be excellent mulch for your garden. They help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and add nutrients back into the soil as they decompose.
What is composting and how does it help in reducing yard waste?

Composting is the process of recycling organic matter, such as leaves and vegetable scraps, into a rich soil amendment. By composting, you reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and create a beneficial product for your garden.
How can I reduce the amount of yard waste during landscaping projects?

Plan your landscaping projects carefully to minimize excess materials. Purchase only what you need, repurpose materials whenever possible, and choose plants that have less pruning requirements.
What should I do with large branches and tree trimmings?

For larger items like branches and tree trimmings that can't be composted, consider hiring a chipping service to turn them into mulch, or see if your local waste management facility has a drop-off point for such waste.