Leaf Removal in Portland, OR
Portland is the largest city in Oregon. Unlike other major cities, nature is very much a part of its identity. Portland forms a junction between the Willamette and Columbia rivers, which are two of the most famous rivers in the Pacific Northwest. Portland also has majestic views of Mt. Hood. Nature is also prevalent in its plethora of city parks, natural areas, bicycle paths, and gardens. Given its dry and sunny summers and mild winters, there's always a reason to get outside and enjoy Portland's natural beauty. Nature aside, it has many other popular attractions too, including theater, arts, and a vibrant nightlife scene. If you live in Portland, chances are good you prefer to spend your time enjoying the city's fun activities. Things like yard work can be a chore. Nevertheless, it's vital to maintain your yard throughout the year.
The Importance of Leaf Removal
Every season brings a change of scenery to your yard's landscape. It also means that there's some critical work to be done. Before the fall season ends, one of the most vital parts of lawn care is removing leaves. When autumn arrives, some trees will lose their leaves. Left untouched, the leaves on your lawn accumulate over time. This makes your yard look messy and unkempt. But it can also damage your lawn. The pile of leaves on your property creates a cover over the grass. This barrier prevents sunlight, water, and minerals from reaching the roots of grass, plants, and flowers underneath. In turn, this will impede their growth. It can also cause them to die over the winter. If this happens, you'll face a dead lawn in the spring that needs to be re-seeded and restored.
Of course, it's always a good idea to contact a professional service like Lawn Love for proper leaf removal and disposal. But if your yard doesn't collect too many leaves, you can handle the task yourself. You can easily remove leaves by using a mechanical leaf blower or by raking the yard. You might want to consider aerating the lawn as well before winter. This process rejuvenates the soil and makes it even easier for oxygen, nutrients, and water to reach the flora underneath.
Proper leaf removal requires knowing how to remove the leaves in your yard, as well as knowing when to remove them. For that, you'll want to know more about the types of trees that grow in Oregon and what varieties might be in your yard.
Native Oregon Trees
When people envision trees in Oregon, towering conifers inevitably come to mind. Hardy evergreen trees are indeed prevalent in Portland and the Pacific Northwest in general. However, many deciduous species also thrive in the local climate. From Ash to fir trees, there are many indigenous species. These species, notes the Oregon Department of Forestry, have many benefits. They are low-maintenance, drought-resistant, and attract pollinators. Some are also disease-resistant as well.
Here are some of the few native trees that you might find growing in your yard.
- Red alder
- Cascara
- Ponderosa pine
- Pacific ninebark
Red alder is a deciduous tree that loses its leaves in the fall. Its leaves are recognizable for their dark green hue and serrated edges. The tree has a light gray bark that is smooth to the touch. Red alder enjoys cooler temperatures and moist soil. With the right conditions, it grows to reach 40-50 feet tall. This species provides seeds that are popular among many bird species, notably the common redpoll and pine siskin. This species does best in full sun.
Cascara, which reaches a height of 30 feet, is on the smaller side. It is native to Oregon and western parts of North America. Cascara is ideal for smaller properties. Its bark ranges in color from brown to silver-gray, and its leaves are oval-shaped. This tree is a deciduous species that produces white flowers in May. Its leaves, which are green throughout the spring and summer, turn lovely shades in the fall. Cascara also produces berries that are enjoyed by wildlife.
Ponderosa pine is a majestic tree that can reach heights of 150 feet or more. It is generally found east of the Cascade range. This pine has dark green needles that can reach lengths of 10 inches. This pine tree features large pinecones and a distinctive scent of vanilla.
Pacific ninebark is technically a large shrub. It reaches a mature height of 10-15 feet. This species can either grow straight upright or spread outward depending on maintenance. It is highly resistant to pests and disease. Large white flowers and red seeds are their trademark features. This species thrives in full sun to partial shade. It does best in moist soil.
Events in Portland
Removing the leaves from trees in your yard can take some time. However, it is well worth the effort to have a healthy and productive lawn. When you're finished with yard work, you'll also have more time to check out Portland's "can't-miss" fall events.
Dahlia Festival
If you are an avid gardener, a dahlia enthusiast, or if you love flowers, this event is not one to miss. Held in late August, it lets you enjoy an impressive display of over 400 floral arrangements. You'll also find over 15,000 cut flowers on display, which are arranged across three display rooms.
Feast Portland
Flowers aren't the only attraction of Portland's fall events. Food plays a significant role, too. This food festival draws crowds with quality food and wine selections. Over the years, it has earned a reputation as one of the most prestigious food and wine events in the Pacific Northwest.
Portland has a reputation as one of Oregon's most enjoyable cities. With all there is to see and do here, there's much more to do than yard work! Luckily, you can contact the experts at Lawn Love to take care of your lawn care needs, including seasonal leaf removal. Contact us today!
