Removing large leaves and thatch from your lawn helps keep it healthy. Both types of organic matter can block nutrients, airflow, and sunlight that are needed for lush lawns. “Raking will allow your lawn to breathe and receive sunlight better,” Freda says. If you despise raking, consider getting a lawn mower that grinds the leaves into small bits of mulch. Left in the lawn, they enhance the nitrogen level of the soil. If you prefer to remove leaves entirely, consider them as compost or other uses such as plant insulation. On the lighter side, you can even turn raked leaves into an art form.