Changing leaves are the first real sign of Fall. But while those gorgeous red, gold and orange petals are fun to stare at during long drives through the countryside, fallen leaves are a hassle for homeowners.

Trees provide shade in the summer and protection in the winter but they’re shedding in the fall leads to hours of backbreaking work. The leaves typically seem to win the battle, but this year it’s possible for you to win the war against the foliage blanketing your yard, driveway, and sidewalk.

Here are some simple ways to beat the leaves this Fall, guaranteed…