"... to rake or not to rake"

...that is the question
Whether 'tis better to let them rot in situ
Or gather them into a bonfire."
 
The annual ritual of raking leaves may be over- thanks to the latest advice  from gardening gurus.
Researchers say if less than 50% of the lawn is covered with leaves, raking is not necessary, but running the lawn mower over the leaves to shred them is recommended. If there is more than 50% leaf coverage, it's time to get out the rake!

Our two Acer griseums, better known as paperbark maple, have spectacular bright red foliage in the autumn and I intend to leave the leaves on the lawn. But for how long? Last winter I left them and paid the price this year.
It was August before the lawn fully recovered.