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>

Get matched with top lawn care providers in Sidney, MT

Q: Can you trim a bush or hedge too much?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s possible to go too far trimming your bushes or hedges. If you overdo it, you may kill the plant. Stick to trimming about a third of the branches on your bush each season to prevent over-cutting. If your hedge is overgrown and needs a heavy trim, avoid cutting off the main branches that make up the top of the bush.</p></div>

Q: What does a fall or spring lawn clean-up involve?

• <div><p>Leaf removal, aeration, dethatching, mowing, pruning, and fertilizing are activities that prepare lawns for the next season.</p></div>

Q: What does land clearing consist of?

• <div><p>A land-clearing project begins with assessing and preparing the property and pulling any necessary permits with your municipal building department. Clearing can begin after the project details are ironed out between you and your pro and a written contract is signed. Pros will bring out the necessary equipment and crew to first remove trees, stumps, brush, and vegetation. Your pro will then load up and haul away the project debris, and depending on the project, they may finish by grading the cleared land. </p></div>

Q: How do you remove bushes?

• <div><p>The easiest way to remove bushes is first to cut the bush down. You may need to use a handsaw, pruning shears, or a chainsaw for thicker branches. Once you&rsquo;ve removed most of the branches, you can then cut the base of the shrub as low to the ground as you can get. Then, with a shovel, dig around until you expose the roots. Dig out the roots, being careful not to leave any roots in the soil.</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>

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Verified Reviews for Lawn Service pros in Sidney, MT

*The Angi rating for Lawn Service companies in Sidney, MT is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Lawn Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Lawn Service companies in Sidney, MT is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Lawn Service needs.

Last update on March 20, 2026

Reviewed in March 2026
Yes completely took the roof off house garage , rebuilt whole upstairs due to a storm built my decks on my house poured to concrete patio quality work
MacGrady Construction LLC
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Reviewed in October 2024
Very happy! We bought 21 windows and a door.. very professional from salesman to installers
Renewal by Andersen of Montana
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Reviewed in January 2023
Robert is very conscientious, he has good customer service and knows what to do and when to do it!
Sidney Woodworker and Lumber
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Reviewed in September 2022
I would recommend them anywhere, they do quality work.
That Guy Construction
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Reviewed in June 2022
Great responsiveness, quick completion of the work, and the crew was great at doing nightly clean up so it was always a clean job site.
MDJ Roofers
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Reviewed in January 2022
Josh and crew are hard workers
M&S Construction & Concrete LLC
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Reviewed in August 2019
Jay and his crew did a great job. Local contractors would'nt take my project because i had bought my own materials. Jay gladly took the job with issue. Easy to get ahold of. Always returned my calls and answered my questions. I will be rehiring for sure.
Integrity Roofing and Construction LLC
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Find Lawn care providers in Sidney

2T Earth Worx LLC

5.0(

)

Lawn and Garden Sprinkler System - Install

Serving Sidney, MT and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"I needed a shed put together. I’m very happy with the result! Ty, worked 10 hours straight and did an amazing job! He went above and beyond to make sure the shed was safe and sturdy.I HIGHLY RECOMMEND and plan to use again for other projects I have in mind! Great guy and family man with a fantastic work ethic! I feel blessed that I found this company."

+28

Response time3 days

25 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by27%of homeowners

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

Serving Sidney, 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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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 Sidney, 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 Sidney, 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

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Javiers Lawn Services - Home Facebook

New to Angi

Lawn & Yard Waste Clean UpLawn Care - Aerate a LawnLawn Care - Maintain and Mow a Lawn+1 more

Serving Sidney, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

Javier's Lawn Services has been serving Fairview and the surrounding community since 2015. We have over 8 years experience in lawn care and home repairs and we make customer satisfaction our #1 priority. Call for a free estimate today!

Response time10 mins

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Quality Home Improvements

New to Angi

Lawn & Yard Waste Clean UpLawn Care - Aerate a LawnLawn Care - Fall / Spring Clean Up - For Business

Serving Sidney, MT and surrounding areas

over 15 years of experience

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Boe Landscaping

New to Angi

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

Serving Sidney, MT and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We offer only the best in quality workmanship and professional courtesy. We specialize in all phases of commercial and residential landscaping. 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 - Maintain and Mow a LawnLawn Care - Maintain and Mow a Lawn - For Business

Serving Sidney, 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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Steve brown

New to Angi

Handyman for Multiple Small Projects

Serving Sidney, 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 Sidney, 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!

Request Quote

Showing 1-10 of 18

Lawns questions, answered by experts

It’s possible to go too far trimming your bushes or hedges. If you overdo it, you may kill the plant. Stick to trimming about a third of the branches on your bush each season to prevent over-cutting. If your hedge is overgrown and needs a heavy trim, avoid cutting off the main branches that make up the top of the bush.

Leaf removal, aeration, dethatching, mowing, pruning, and fertilizing are activities that prepare lawns for the next season.

A land-clearing project begins with assessing and preparing the property and pulling any necessary permits with your municipal building department. Clearing can begin after the project details are ironed out between you and your pro and a written contract is signed. Pros will bring out the necessary equipment and crew to first remove trees, stumps, brush, and vegetation. Your pro will then load up and haul away the project debris, and depending on the project, they may finish by grading the cleared land.

The easiest way to remove bushes is first to cut the bush down. You may need to use a handsaw, pruning shears, or a chainsaw for thicker branches. Once you’ve removed most of the branches, you can then cut the base of the shrub as low to the ground as you can get. Then, with a shovel, dig around until you expose the roots. Dig out the roots, being careful not to leave any roots in the soil.

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.

The Sidney, 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
•
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.
Kate Fann
•
Mar 17, 2026Mar 17, 2026
What Are the Average Prices for Mowing Lawns? [2026 Data]
The average lawn mowing cost runs between $50 and $200 depending on factors like your lawn’s size and shape. Here’s what to expect.
Haley Nothstein
•
Jul 10, 2026Jul 10, 2026
How Much Does Lawn Care Cost? [2026 Data]
Your total lawn care cost depends on several factors, including the type of service and lawn size. Our guide will cover what you can expect to pay for lawn care.
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.
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.