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The ubiquitous carpet of fallen leaves outside our windows, often seen as a seasonal affair, Holds a surprising secret for gardeners,
Far from being mere waste, this natural gift can be transformed into a vital ingredient for prosperity GardenProvides benefits beyond traditional composting or mulching. One such underutilized resource is leaf. mold,
Easier to make than compost, leaf mold is made from just one ingredient: leaves. This organic matter significantly enhances soil health, retaining moisture in sandy soils and improving drainage in clayey varieties. It also helps regulate soil temperature and acts as an effective weed suppressant when spread in beds and borders.
Although it is not as rich in nutrients as compost, leaf mold is far from inactive. It actively supports beneficial soil life including earthworms, insects and micro-organisms, promoting overall plant vigor and health.
Most types of leaves are suitable, with smaller leaves such as beech and maple decomposing within a few months, while larger, tougher varieties such as oak may take up to two years. An important exception is black walnut leaves, which contain juglone, a chemical toxic to some plants; These compounds can persist in leaf mold, so it is best to avoid them.
Before making the leaf mold, you need to decide where to place it. You can wrap the leaves around chicken-wire, stack them in contractor-grade, black plastic garbage bags that you’ve poked a bunch of holes in for air circulation, or put them in a simple compost bin.
Regardless, lay down the leaves lasagna-style, alternating with a sprinkling of water and, optionally, a light application of nitrogen fertilizer, which helps speed the process (ordinary lawn fertilizer will do).
Check the leaf pile every two weeks and water as needed to keep it lightly moist.
In the spring, it should look like humus, the dark, crumbly, nutrient-rich organic matter that acts as a protective layer on the forest floor.
Spread your leaf mold over your beds and borders as you would mulch or compost, and mix some into the potting mix in your containers. This will release nutrients into the soil that will benefit your plants throughout the growing season.