1
Keep lawns and paths clear
A thick carpet of leaves starves the lawn of light and air and can rot the grass through winter. Sweep or rake them off regularly, and keep paths and drains clear of leaf litter so they don't become slippery or clogged.
Maintenance5 min read
Autumn leaf clearance: what to do with fallen leaves
Clear leaves from lawns and paths, but don't throw them all away — they're one of the best soil improvers you have.
Created by jflgardens.co.uk
Fallen leaves are both a chore and a gift. Cleared from lawns and paths they prevent damage and slips, but gathered up they become leaf mould — a brilliant, free soil improver for your beds.
2
Don't bin them — make leaf mould
Pile leaves in a simple wire enclosure or bin bags and, in a year or two, they break down into leaf mould — a superb, free soil conditioner. It's the easiest compost you'll ever make, because it needs almost no attention.
3
Use leaf mould in beds
Spread finished leaf mould over beds as a mulch or dig it in to improve the soil. Unlike fresh compost it's very mild, so it's perfect for top-dressing borders and around plants without burning anything.
4
A few leaves can stay
A thin scattering of leaves under hedges and shrubs makes good habitat for wildlife and slowly breaks down to feed the soil. You don't need to strip the garden bare — just keep the high-traffic, high-value areas clear.
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