You are 100% correct, it is better to mulch and leave them exactly where God put them (pun intended), as they are nutrient rich with potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. But my wife hounds me as our house has been dilapidated for so long that she insists that we at least keep it 100% clean. For me it's a nightmare, as it can take most of my day, every other day, then I have to heal for a day or so; due to allergies in my eyes or skin because of the constant chem trailing over my house. I am stating now, that the 911 21st anniversary is going to be a real serious deadline for many. No more excuses, God's wrath upon a wicked evil generation.