Do decomposing leaves pose a health hazard?

• <div><p>It’s unlikely your leaves are a hazard, especially if you get to them while they’re dry. However, a couple of rare risks exist. University studies suggest that decaying leaves can produce organochlorines, toxic pollutants similar to man-made PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), so avoid keeping them in an enclosed area.</p><p>Also, leaves and compost may cause the growth of fungi that can cause diseases like histoplasmosis and aspergillosis, as well as mold spores that are unhealthy for human lungs. Again, severe issues are rare, but those with compromised immune systems or allergies to mold should wear face masks when directly handling leaves.</p></div>

What do professional gardeners do?

• <div><p>By definition, gardeners are experts at designing and maintaining outdoor gardens. Their job duties extend far beyond choosing the right plants for the area, which in itself is a job—they also help maintain the health and well-being of the plants. Gardeners work independently or for landscapers, nurseries, or horticulture design companies. </p></div>

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Q: How long does it take to clear land?

• <div><p>Land-clearing projects often take professionals one to two days to complete, but your timeframe can get much longer&mdash;sometimes up to a week or more&mdash;if you need your pros to clear a large section of land, grind down multiple large trees below the ground, or clear especially dense or heavy materials, like landscaping boulders and brush. A land-clearing expert will usually give you an accurate timeline along with your quote to help you better plan your project.</p></div>

Q: Do decomposing leaves pose a health hazard?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s unlikely your leaves are a hazard, especially if you get to them while they&rsquo;re dry. However, a couple of rare risks exist. University studies suggest that decaying leaves can produce organochlorines, toxic pollutants similar to man-made PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), so avoid keeping them in an enclosed area.</p><p>Also, leaves and compost may cause the growth of fungi that can cause diseases like histoplasmosis and aspergillosis, as well as mold spores that are unhealthy for human lungs. Again, severe issues are rare, but those with compromised immune systems or allergies to mold should wear face masks when directly handling leaves.</p></div>

Q: How do I prepare my yard for river rock?

• <div><p>To prepare your yard for river rocks, smaller rocks may require laying landscape fabric to keep the stones from sinking into the ground while encouraging proper water drainage. You should also clear the land of weeds and larger boulders and, in some cases, test the density of the soil to ensure it can handle the weight.</p></div>

Q: How often should you have leaves removed from your lawn?

• <div><p>You can choose between weekly leaf removal services throughout the fall or a single cleanup at the end of the season. If you want to maintain a pristine lawn, weekly service is a good idea to keep up with falling leaves. Alternatively, if you prioritize saving money, you can wait until all or most of the trees on your property are bare and pay for a one-time service. In most areas, this is typically in early to mid-November. While a single service is more budget-friendly, your yard will not remain leaf-free for the entire season.</p></div>

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Lawn Care - Aerate a LawnLawn Care - Fertilize or Treat a Lawn

Serving Malta, MT and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1974

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"I think they treated the wrong lawn. The note they sent me via text message referenced trees and shrubs in my yard, I have none. They also did not leave a yard marker showing they had been there. Otherwise, this would have been a 5 star review."

Enjoy Your Lawn at it's Fullest Potential

Recommended by76%of homeowners

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Kingdom Craftsman LLC

4.8(

)

Handyman for Multiple Small ProjectsLawn & Yard Waste Clean UpLawn Care - Maintain and Mow a Lawn+2 more

Serving Malta, MT and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

At Kingdom Craftsman LLC, we are committed to delivering exceptional services in Havre, MT. Founded in 2017 by Charles, whose childhood on a farm instilled a strong work ethic and attention to detail, our company is dedicated to offering expert handyman, janitorial, lawn maintenance, appliance repair, and apartment maintenance services. With Charles’ background in History and diverse work experience, we’ve cultivated a culture of craftsmanship and precision. We take pride in providing services that enhance the quality of life in every home and business, making us a trusted name in Havre.\n\n

3 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Integrity LandscapeLLC

5.0(

)

Lawn Care - Maintain and Mow a LawnLawn Care - Maintain and Mow a Lawn - For BusinessLawn and Garden Sprinkler System - Install+5 more

Serving Malta, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Lawn and Garden Sprinkler System - InstallLawn and Garden Sprinkler System - Install - For BusinessLawn and Garden Sprinkler System - Repair+3 more

Serving Malta, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"Excellent tech, work, and warranty! I am a huge fan!"

Recommended by81%of homeowners

Lawn & Yard Waste Clean Up

Serving Malta, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

R and R Fence Co LLC is a family-owned and operated company serving Central Montana for nearly a decade. Were more than just fenceswe specialize in decks, tree services, power washing, junk removal, welding, and just about all outdoor needs. Our mission is simple: deliver reliable, high-quality craftsmanship with honest pricing and personal care. Whether you want to secure your property, create an outdoor living space, or clean up and restore your yard, were the one-call solution. Built on family values and community trust, we treat every project like its our own.

Response time2 days

Lawn & Yard Waste Clean UpLawn Care - Maintain and Mow a LawnLawn Care - Maintain and Mow a Lawn - For Business

Serving Malta, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

At C&C Roofing, our company is based on the belief that our customer's needs are of the utmost importance. Our team is committed to meeting those needs. We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver you the best service. No job is too big or too small for our experienced team. Call today for a quote.

Response time10 mins

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Little Lamb Construction, LLC

4.5(

)

Handyman for Multiple Small ProjectsLawn & Yard Waste Clean UpLawn Care - Fall / Spring Clean Up - For Business+1 more

Serving Malta, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service that\nwe provide to meet your needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship\nand complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. \nIn order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers,\nwe take great care to work and communicate with every customer a professional manner.\nOur reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large\nor small the job.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Steve brown

New to Angi

Handyman for Multiple Small Projects

Serving Malta, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Ranch work\nWell experienced

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Hyalite Sprinklers

New to Angi

Lawn & Yard Waste Clean UpLawn and Garden Sprinkler System - Winterize or Activate - For BusinessSprinkler System for Lawn and Garden - Winterize or Activate

Serving Malta, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 2011

Free estimates

We offer only the best in quality workmanship and professional courtesy. We specialize in all phases of sprinklers. We are committed quality work and outstanding results & are strongly involved in local community activities. We look forward to working with you!

Lawn & Yard Waste Clean UpLawn Care - Fall / Spring Clean Up - For BusinessLawn Care - Maintain and Mow a Lawn+1 more

Serving Malta, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Ernz Painting is dedicated to providing our customers with the best quality and craftsmanship. We are here to build relationships with our customers and communities. No job is too big or too small! We look forward to working with you!

Response time30 mins

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Showing 1-10 of 12

Lawns questions, answered by experts

Land-clearing projects often take professionals one to two days to complete, but your timeframe can get much longer—sometimes up to a week or more—if you need your pros to clear a large section of land, grind down multiple large trees below the ground, or clear especially dense or heavy materials, like landscaping boulders and brush. A land-clearing expert will usually give you an accurate timeline along with your quote to help you better plan your project.

It’s unlikely your leaves are a hazard, especially if you get to them while they’re dry. However, a couple of rare risks exist. University studies suggest that decaying leaves can produce organochlorines, toxic pollutants similar to man-made PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), so avoid keeping them in an enclosed area.

Also, leaves and compost may cause the growth of fungi that can cause diseases like histoplasmosis and aspergillosis, as well as mold spores that are unhealthy for human lungs. Again, severe issues are rare, but those with compromised immune systems or allergies to mold should wear face masks when directly handling leaves.

To prepare your yard for river rocks, smaller rocks may require laying landscape fabric to keep the stones from sinking into the ground while encouraging proper water drainage. You should also clear the land of weeds and larger boulders and, in some cases, test the density of the soil to ensure it can handle the weight.

You can choose between weekly leaf removal services throughout the fall or a single cleanup at the end of the season. If you want to maintain a pristine lawn, weekly service is a good idea to keep up with falling leaves. Alternatively, if you prioritize saving money, you can wait until all or most of the trees on your property are bare and pay for a one-time service. In most areas, this is typically in early to mid-November. While a single service is more budget-friendly, your yard will not remain leaf-free for the entire season.

By definition, gardeners are experts at designing and maintaining outdoor gardens. Their job duties extend far beyond choosing the right plants for the area, which in itself is a job—they also help maintain the health and well-being of the plants. Gardeners work independently or for landscapers, nurseries, or horticulture design companies.

The Malta, MT homeowners’ guide to lawn services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Angi
•
Sep 9, 2026Sep 9, 2026
How Much Does Lawn Aeration Cost? [2026 Data]
Discover average lawn aeration cost, key price factors, and tips to save. Get a clear estimate for your yard and learn how to choose between DIY and hiring a pro.
Angi
•
Aug 3, 2026Aug 3, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Fertilize Your Lawn? [2026 Data]
Discover the cost to fertilize your lawn, including average prices, key factors, and tips to help homeowners budget for a lush, healthy yard.
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•
Mar 17, 2026Mar 17, 2026
What Are the Average Prices for Mowing Lawns? [2026 Data]
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Kat Brancato
•
Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 2026
How to Hire the Best Lawn Service
When it comes to regular lawn care service—mowing, trimming, weed killing, and other landscaping—don’t settle for anything but the best; here’s how to find it.
Mizuki Hisaka
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
A Lawn Fertilizer Schedule to Follow for Best Results
Everyone wants lush, green lawns, but how do you do it? Using the right lawn fertilizer schedule is a good way to start. Here’s how to make your yard look its best.
Jill Harness
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Best Grass For High Traffic Lawns: 6 Types to Try
The best grass for high traffic lawns varies based on the planting location. These six grasses are the best choice for anyone who uses their lawn frequently.