If there is one thing that many people hate in autumn, it is collecting dead leaves from trees and shrubs… When there are no more, there are still more! In addition, if left lying around, this garden waste turns into humus or an ice rink… Fortunately, we can find a little positive in carrying out this chore by remembering that, like weeds which can To prove useful, there are many tips to do with these leaves and in particular by starting to prepare compost from dead leaves. Yes! all these beautiful leaves of a beautiful flamboyant red or warm orange which annoy us once they fall can become real allies of the gardener. Here’s how to prepare this great potting soil to use this green waste intelligently in planting the vegetable patch or garden.
And above all, don’t forget to also help the dead leaves stuck in the gutter.
What are the benefits of dead leaf compost?
First of all, know that this potting soil is excellent for lighten compacted soils. In fact, it is very airy and fine, which allows it to rectify the most “stuffy” floors. With its low nutrient content, it is an organic amendment light and humus perfect for making a substrate for seedlings and cuttings. And of course, since you collect all the raw material in your garden, this potting soil obviously has the advantage of being free! By using it this way, you also save yourself a trip to the recycling center. Finally, note that 4m3 of leaves will give you approximately 1m3 of potting soil. Pretty good!
The ecological and economic benefits of this practice
Recycling dead leaves to make compost is a process both economical and ecological. By reusing this natural waste, you considerably reduce the quantity of green waste to be transported to the recycling center, which thus helps to limit CO2 emissions linked to their processing. Additionally, this practice reduces the need to purchase amendments or often expensive and industrial fertilizers. By making your own soil rich in organic matter, you are opting for a 100% natural solution which improves the structure of the soil while supporting microbial biodiversity. It also encourages sustainable approach to gardening where every available resource is valued instead of being thrown away.
Concrete uses of dead leaf compost
The leaf mold is particularly appreciated for seedlings and cuttingsbecause it is light and airy. It promotes good germination without being too rich in nutrients, which could burn the young plants. This type of potting soil is also very useful for lightening heavy and compact soilsparticularly in the vegetable garden, by improving their structure and drainage. Finally, it can be used as an amendment in flower beds or for potted plants where it helps to maintain good root ventilation while promoting moisture retention. Its use contributes in all cases to maintain balanced soilconducive to plant growth.
Which dead leaves should I use to obtain this compost?
Of course it is better avoid putting leaves affected by cryptogamic diseases (marsonia, powdery mildew, scab, screen rust, etc.). In fact, we do not want the spores to proliferate in the soil and contaminate future plants. Additionally, avoid contaminating your future crops with harmful pests such as the Cameraria ohridella caterpillar which overwinters in dead leaves. Last thing, don’t slip not softwood needles or hickory leaves whose tannin is too harmful.
Otherwise, you are pretty free to put whatever deciduous tree leaves you want. The ideal would be for them to be dry or damp, but not wet : it’s always a plus! Otherwise, note that thick, leathery leaves take longer to decompose and unnecessarily weigh down the ground material. So for the plane tree, the laurel, the oak or the beech, we do not hesitate to give a crusher blow to this pile of dead leaves. Using crushed leaves will make the job easier.
Good to know: If some grass clippings appear, don’t worry. Rich in nitrogen, the blades of grass will facilitate the decomposition of the leaves.
Time for the step-by-step production of dead leaf compost!
Choose your preparation method
Start with him find a shady spot. You must then choose between two methods:
1) Fill large perforated trash bags with leaves and good compost then close tightly. If you opt for bags with holes, make sure that air circulates well and that the leaves remain slightly damp. Spray a little water if they become too dry, especially in hot weather.
2) Use a tray to slide the well-moistened leaves into it and cover with a layer of soil or compost from last year’s leaves. This will bring microorganisms to seed the soil. Here, do not hesitate to alternate layers leaves with materials richer in nitrogen (such as cut grass or vegetable peelings) and to regularly aerate and moisten the potting soil.
Turn the compost every six months and keep it slightly damp
Whatever method you choose (bag or bin), it is essential to turn the pile every six months to aerate decomposition and prevent leaves from bunching or rotting. Slow, poorly ventilated decomposition can then lead to unpleasant odors. Regular turning also helps maintain a good balance between oxygen and humidity.
Finally, if you notice that your pile of leaves seems too dry, moisten it lightly, but not excessively to prevent the leaves from turning into a soggy mass. The occasional addition of mature compost or nettle manure can also speed up the process.
A little waiting will then be necessary
After a yearyour leaf compost will already have matured well. The best would nevertheless be to give him a few more months, even two years so that it is at the top of its quality. However, you can also speed up the process by adding nitrogen to its carbon-rich leaves. For example, you can add fresh nettle without seeds. Otherwise, use nettle or comfrey manure.
Final tips for successful potting soil
To ensure good decomposition of the leaves and obtain quality soil, some additional care may be necessary. This involves, above all, good monitoring of humidity, ventilation and proportions to guarantee quality soil. Several problems can indeed arise when preparing dead leaf compost, but they are easily avoidable with a few precautions.
A common concern is, for example, the development of too slow decomposition. This may be due to a poor balance between carbon and nitrogen. Since the leaves are rich in carbon, it is essential toadd more nitrogenous materials (like grass clippings) to speed up the process.
If the pile of leaves rots too quickly or gives off bad odors, this usually indicates a lack of oxygen. In this case, it is important toaerate regularly by turning the pile to promote air circulation.
Leaves that are too wet can also be a problem: they may stick together and block air circulation, delaying decomposition. To remedy this, monitor the humidity and do not hesitate to mix drier materials if necessary.
Finally, tough leaves (like those of oak or plane trees) can slow down decomposition. In this case, it is advisable to grind them before adding them to make the process easier.