top of page
Search

Tips for Making Leaf Mould: The Gardener’s Secret to Healthy Soil

Leaf mould is an incredible, all-natural soil conditioner that improves soil structure, boosts moisture retention, and enhances the overall health of your plants. Plus, it's an eco-friendly way to recycle fallen leaves from your garden. In this post, we’ll explore how to make leaf mould, provide tips for speeding up the process, and discuss how to use it in your garden. Let’s get started!


Wooden compost bin overflowing with autumn leaves in a sunlit garden, surrounded by trees and bushes in vibrant fall colors. Leaf Mould

What is Leaf Mould?

Leaf mould is the product of decomposed leaves, broken down by fungi over time. Unlike compost, which requires a mix of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials, leaf mould is made from just one ingredient: leaves. This makes it incredibly easy to produce, even for beginner gardeners.


Benefits of Leaf Mould

  • Improves Soil Structure: Leaf mould acts as a soil conditioner, making heavy clay soils lighter and sandy soils better at retaining moisture.

  • Enhances Water Retention: It can hold up to 500% of its weight in water, reducing the need for frequent watering.

  • Supports Beneficial Microorganisms: A rich source of organic matter, leaf mould promotes microbial activity in the soil.

  • Cost-Effective and Eco-Friendly: It’s free to make and helps recycle garden waste sustainably.


How to Make Leaf Mould

Step 1: Collect Leaves

Gather fallen leaves from your garden during autumn. Avoid leaves from walnut or eucalyptus trees, as these can contain compounds that inhibit plant growth. Use a rake or leaf blower to collect leaves quickly, and store them in a pile or bag.

Step 2: Shred the Leaves

Shredded leaves decompose faster. Use a lawnmower with a collection bag or a leaf shredder to break them down into smaller pieces. If you don’t have these tools, running a lawnmower over a pile of leaves works just as well.

Step 3: Contain the Leaves

Place the leaves in a dedicated leaf mould bin, wire cage, or large black plastic bags with small holes punched for airflow. The pile should remain moist but not waterlogged.

Step 4: Let Nature Work

Fungi will slowly break down the leaves into leaf mould. The process can take 6 months to 2 years, depending on the type of leaves and weather conditions.


Tips to Speed Up the Process

  1. Shred Leaves Thoroughly: Smaller pieces have more surface area for fungi to work on.

  2. Keep the Pile Moist: Water your leaf pile occasionally, especially during dry periods.

  3. Turn the Pile: If using a leaf mould bin or cage, turn the pile every few months to introduce oxygen and speed up decomposition.

  4. Mix in Green Materials: Adding grass clippings or garden waste can introduce nitrogen, which helps kick-start decomposition.


How to Use Leaf Mould in Your Garden

  1. Soil Amendment: Work leaf mould into garden beds to improve soil structure and fertility.

  2. Mulch: Spread it around plants to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature.

  3. Seed Starting Mix: Blend leaf mould with sand and garden soil for a nutrient-rich seed starting mix.

  4. Compost Booster: Add leaf mould to your compost pile for an extra boost of organic matter.


FAQs About Leaf Mould

  1. What types of leaves are best for making leaf mould? Most leaves work well, but avoid walnut and eucalyptus leaves as they contain chemicals that inhibit plant growth.

  2. How long does it take to make leaf mould? The process usually takes 6 months to 2 years, depending on conditions like moisture and leaf type.

  3. Can I add green materials to my leaf mould pile? Yes, adding green materials like grass clippings can speed up the decomposition process.

  4. Do I need special equipment to shred leaves? No, you can use a lawnmower, leaf shredder, or simply leave them whole if shredding isn’t possible.

  5. Is leaf mould the same as compost? No, leaf mould is made solely from leaves and decomposed by fungi, whereas compost uses a mix of greens and browns decomposed by bacteria.

  6. Can I use diseased leaves to make leaf mould? It’s best to avoid diseased leaves, as the pathogens may persist and harm your plants.

  7. Where should I store my leaf mould pile? Keep it in a shaded, out-of-the-way spot where it won’t dry out too quickly.

  8. Can I make leaf mould indoors? While it’s uncommon, you could use a sealed container with ventilation for small amounts, but it’s more practical outdoors.

  9. What should I do if my leaf mould pile dries out? Simply add water to rehydrate it, ensuring it’s moist but not soggy.

  10. How do I know when the leaf mould is ready? The finished product will be dark, crumbly, and have an earthy smell, similar to forest soil.


Additional Resources

For more gardening tips, check out these helpful resources:


Leaf mould is a gardener’s best-kept secret, offering numerous benefits for your soil and plants. By following these simple steps, you can create this valuable resource and take your gardening to the next level. Start collecting those leaves today—your garden will thank you!

If you’re looking for more gardening tips or need professional assistance, contact us today for expert advice and services tailored to your garden's needs.


 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page