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Many tools are effective in helping you remove hedges. While heavy machinery is likely the best option for making quick work of hedge removal, your trusty hand spade shovel is probably the next best. Use a spade shovel to dig around the hedge and break roots as you go with the tool. Your spade is also useful for getting deep underneath the root ball, so you can insert a pry bar to help lift the plant.

No, it’s not necessary to remove all the leaves from your lawn—in fact, leaving some behind can be beneficial. While it's important to clear thick layers of leaves that can smother your grass, leaving a light scattering of leaves can help feed your soil while also providing safe winter habitat for pollinators like bumble bees. Leftover leaves will eventually break down, enriching the soil and promoting healthy lawn growth.

Generally, it is not necessary to remove old mulch before applying a new layer. As organic mulch breaks down, it enriches the soil with nutrients. However, you should remove the old layer if it shows signs of fungus or disease, which can be common in moist areas, or if the total depth is already too thick. Avoid letting the total mulch depth exceed 3 inches, as this can harm plant roots. If you do remove old, disease-free mulch, it can be added to a compost pile.

Typically, the best type to trim bushes is when they’re dormant. Winter and late fall, potentially even early spring are the best times to trim your bushes. These seasons allow you better access to the branches, as all leaves are gone and the branches are more brittle, making the trimming process easier.