Fallen leaves – to rake or not to rake? 7 uses for fallen leaves.
1.Leaves are an ideal carbon source for your compost heap. If you spread the collected leaves among other autumnal waste, you can get excellent compost. To speed up the decomposition of the leaves, shred them first, but this is not necessary. You can use the resulting compost in the following spring.
2.Leaf mould may not seem like a good idea, but it does wonders for your garden soil. Leaf mould is a crumbly, compost-like product that remains when leaves are left to decompose on their own. It is what makes the smell of the forest so earthy.
Leaf mould improves the structure of the soil, significantly improving its water-holding capacity. It also attracts beneficial organisms that are so important for healthy soil.
Mulch. Leaves make excellent mulch, which suppresses weeds and eventually nourishes the soil by decomposing. But first, it is advisable to shred the leaves. A thick layer of damp leaves can form a strong mat and block the penetration of water and air into the soil.
- Leaves can be used to insulate delicate plants. You can make a wire fence and cover the plant with leaves. In the spring, you should dismantle the fence and put the leaves on the compost heap.
- The leaves can also be used for cold storage of vegetables. If you have a cellar or basement for storage, you can use dry leaves instead of sawdust or newspapers to cover your vegetables. They will easily remain fresh throughout the winter.
- Leave the leaves on the lawn. Run the lawnmower over them and let them stay on the lawn and feed the grass. The shredded leaves will quickly disperse between the grass and allow it to breathe.
- Everyone knows how beautiful autumn leaves are when they are on the trees, but they don’t lose that beauty just because they fall. Gather some and dry them to decorate your home with an autumnal theme: bouquets, wreaths, garlands, arrangements, etc.
- Leaves are a great, free alternative to manure bags. You just need to make sure they are in good contact with the soil and then let nature do its magic.
The leaves will start to break down and provide a great habitat for earthworms and other beneficial organisms that live in your garden soil
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