How Often Does Leif Visit in Animal Crossing: New Horizons? A Comprehensive Guide
Leif, the charming sloth with a passion for plants, is a beloved character in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. His visits bring a splash of color and new gardening possibilities to your island. But, how often does Leif visit your island? The short answer is once a week. However, there are some nuances to this frequency and several factors that influence Leif’s appearances. Let’s delve into the details and explore everything you need to know about Leif’s visits and how to make the most of them.
Leif’s Regular Visits to Your Island
As mentioned, Leif will randomly visit your island once per week. This visit is not tied to any specific day of the week, meaning you could see him on a Monday just as easily as a Saturday. When Leif arrives, he sets up his charming kiosk at the plaza, right in front of Resident Services. Here, he’ll be selling an array of shrubs and flower seeds that are not typically available from Nook’s Cranny. These seasonal plants are perfect for adding a personal touch and vibrant hues to your island’s landscape.
Leif stays on your island until the daily reset time, which is 5:00 AM. After this time, he will pack up his stall and depart, only to potentially return again the following week. It’s important to note that Leif’s visits are indeed random, which means there’s no guaranteed schedule. You’ll need to keep a watchful eye out for his arrival.
Factors Influencing Leif’s Appearances
While the basic frequency is once per week, some factors can affect Leif’s appearance, especially during the initial setup phase of your island. For instance, Leif will not start visiting your island until you have helped Timmy open Nook’s Cranny. This condition is similar to how other special characters, like Mable of the Able Sisters, are introduced. So, if you’re early in your game, focus on developing your island first to unlock this lovely visitor.
Another important point is that Leif’s presence on your island can coincide with special events. For example, while not exclusive to it, Leif will often be seen on the first day of the Nature Day event, assuming you actually experienced the morning announcement of this event on that day. This is a common occurrence as Nature Day in Animal Crossing coincides roughly with Earth Day on April 22nd. However, even if his visit is associated with an event like this, he will still only visit once per week.
Leif at Harv’s Island: A Permanent Shop
Beyond his weekly visits, Leif also has a permanent shop on Harv’s Island. This is accessed by speaking to the third Lloid on the right when you first visit Harv’s Plaza. The Lloid will tell you that you can invite a “botany expert with the greenest of thumbs,” which is Leif. To get him to set up his shop, you’ll need to donate 100,000 bells. After doing this, Leif will open his shop the very next day.
This permanent shop at Harv’s Island allows you to access Leif’s goods daily, giving you more flexibility in purchasing plants and expanding your gardening options. Leif’s inventory at Harv’s Island is similar to his visiting stall but does not replace his weekly visits to your main island. Both are separate ways of seeing Leif and his plant offerings.
Making the Most of Leif’s Visits
Leif’s visits are not just about expanding your plant collection; they also offer an opportunity to engage in the creative aspect of the game. Here are a few tips for making the most of Leif’s appearances:
- Prioritize Seasonal Plants: Leif often stocks plants that relate to the current season. Purchasing them when available allows you to have unique and timely decorations for your island.
- Check Harv’s Island Daily: If you need a particular type of shrub or flower, don’t wait for Leif’s weekly visit. His shop on Harv’s Island is open every day after it is unlocked.
- Plan Your Landscaping: Before buying, think about how Leif’s plants will fit into your island’s overall design. Careful planning can lead to stunning results.
- Complete Nook Miles Challenges: Planting shrubs is great for completing Nook Miles challenges which can be very rewarding for the player.
- Take Advantage of Color Variety: Leif will often sell a variety of colored flower seeds, allowing players to make custom designs to their landscaping that is more vibrant than the default color seeds sold in the Nook’s Cranny.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 Frequently Asked Questions that address various aspects of Leif’s visits and his role in Animal Crossing: New Horizons:
1. What day of the week does Leif come to my island?
Leif’s visits are random and not tied to any specific day of the week. He can appear on any day, so you’ll need to check your island daily.
2. How long does Leif stay on my island when he visits?
Leif stays on your island until 5:00 AM, which is the daily reset time for the game.
3. Why is Leif not coming to my island?
Make sure you have helped Timmy open Nook’s Cranny, as this is a prerequisite for Leif’s visits.
4. How do I unlock Leif’s shop on Harv’s Island?
Speak to the third Lloid on the right at Harv’s Plaza, and donate 100,000 bells to invite Leif to set up his shop.
5. Does Leif only come on Nature Day?
No, Leif is not exclusive to Nature Day. While his visits often coincide with Nature Day’s first morning, he still visits your island once per week regardless.
6. What does Leif sell at his stall and shop?
Leif sells various shrubs and flower seeds, often related to the current season. He provides plants not sold in Nook’s Cranny.
7. How often does Harriet, the hairstylist, provide haircuts at Harv’s Island?
Harriet provides **one haircut per day** at Harv's Island. She is immediately available on the island without having to donate bells for her service.
8. How do I get Harv to come to my island in the first place?
Harvey will visit after three villagers have moved onto your island. Then, he will invite you to come visit his island.
9. What is the point of Harv’s Island?
Harv's Island allows players to use **Photopia**, a special mode for taking pictures and designing rooms, and it has shops such as Leif's plant shop.
10. Why can’t I access Harv’s Plaza right away?
You need to have at least three villagers living on your island to unlock Harv’s Island and access Harv’s Plaza.
11. Why is it worth visiting Harv’s Island?
Harv’s Island has become an important location, with permanent shops of special characters offering unique items and services that are not readily accessible elsewhere.
12. How do I receive Harvey’s letter to visit his island?
Ensure your island has a 3-star rating, and then Harvey’s letter should arrive, sometimes one day late.
13. What happens if I say no to Harriet’s hairstyle?
Harriet will **revert your hairstyle back to the original**, which means you can try a new style without committing to it.
14. How do you take pictures on Harv’s Island without amiibo?
You can use the **screenshot button** on your Switch or the **in-game Photo App** on your mobile phone.
15. What is the purpose of the fortune teller, Katrina?
Katrina provides readings on your luck and relationships with other villagers for a small bell fee.
Conclusion
Leif’s weekly visits and permanent shop on Harv’s Island provide enriching experiences for players, allowing you to access unique plants and expand your island’s aesthetic potential. While his visits are random, understanding the prerequisites and ways to maximize his presence will significantly enhance your Animal Crossing experience. Keep an eye out for this friendly sloth and enjoy the vibrant world he brings to your island!