Autumn Lawn Rescue Under a Maple: Soil Test First, Then Maple Leaf Magic

New homeowner, SW Ontario (Cambridge), maple tree roots + hard soil + leaf cover. Wants autumn action for spring success.

Step 1: Soil test. Non-negotiable. Reveals what you *don't* need to buy. Saves money. Zip code → local lab.

Step 2: Maple leaves = gold. Composted maple leaf mulch suppresses dandelions 81% (MSU, Dr. Suzanne Lang). Chemical in leaves hurts weeds, not grass. Rake, shred, compost, use in beds.

Step 3: Tree roots = competition. Surface roots steal water/nutrients. West sun helps. Grass choice: Red or Chewings fescue (dry shade tolerant). UC Davis "Managing Lawns in Shade" guide.

Step 4: Stop over-managing. No fert/weedkiller until soil food web recovers (bacteria, nematodes, insects). They prep soil for grass.

Test soil. Compost leaves. Pick shade grass. Wait for biology.