Systems and methods for collecting yard waste, and a collection apparatus for receiving the yard waste, are provided. A yard waste collection system for connection with a tractor, the system which optimizes air flow comprising a collection apparatus including a cage suspension frame, a plurality of collapsible portions, and at least a rigid bottom portion, the rigid bottom portion having a drop door that opens and closes relative to the cage suspension frame to allow access to an interior space of the collection apparatus a cage suspension frame operably connected to the tractor, the collection apparatus being pivotably suspended from the cage suspension frame and a conduit for allowing passage of yard waste ejected from the tractor to the interior space of the collection apparatus.
