Composting your autumn leaves

As autumn arrives, the colourful leaves falling in your garden can quickly pile up

They can be disrupting the balance of your compost bin. If you have the space, instead of letting them go to waste, why not turn them into leafmould—a dark brown, crumbly, nutrient-rich material perfect for improving your soil, conditioning your lawn, and mulching your garden?

How to make the perfect leafmould:

Step 1: Collect the leaves

Gather small quantities of leaves by hand using a rake. For larger amounts, a leaf blower vacuum can help by shredding the leaves into smaller pieces, speeding up the decay process.

Step 2: Add moisture

If the leaves are dry, moisten them with a little water to help them break down.

Step 3a: Bag it up

Place the leaves in a large bin bag, punch holes in it for air circulation, and store it in a secluded area of your garden.

Step 3b: Use chicken wire

Alternatively, create a simple container using plastic or wire netting with a few stakes. This reusable option can be adjusted to fit your needs.

Step 4: Patience is key

Leave the bag or container untouched for one to two years. The longer you wait, the finer the leafmould will be.

Step 5: Mulch

Young leafmould (one to two years old) can be used as mulch around shrubs, trees, and vegetable beds. Just add it as a layer on top of the soil.

Step 6: Soil improver

Dig young leafmould into your garden beds to enhance the soil for sowing and planting.

Step 7: Sowing mix

Well-rotted leafmould (two years old or more) can be used to create a seed-sowing mix. Combine it with equal parts sharp sand and garden compost.

Step 8: Potting

For potting established plants, mix well-rotted leafmould with sharp sand, garden soil, and compost in equal parts for an ideal potting compost.