Now that fall is upon us, our deciduous landscape plants will begin to lose their leaves and provide us with an excellent soil conditioner. Fall leaves can easily be turned into compost. Compost improves garden soil by increasing its organic matter. This, in turn, improves soil drainage. Organic matter is especially beneficial in heavy clay or light, sandy soils.
Organic matter reduces soil crusting and helps soil hold water and nutrients.
The compost also supplies a small amount of nutrients. Compost can be used as mulch around plants as well, helping to conserve moisture as well as to reduce frost heaving. To compost leaves, alternate layers of leaves with layers of soil or manure. Make the layers of leaves 6-12 inches thick, layers of soil or manure about one inch thick. To hasten decomposition, shred leaves first with a rotary lawn mower or shredder.