If you use a fertilizer, be sure to select one that doesn't contain any weed killers. As you add leaves to the compost, moisten them until they're the consistency of a wet sponge. Check the compost regularly and water to maintain adequate moisture content. Moisture is slow to soak through a leaf pile and is essential for decomposition. Be careful not to over-water, because you don't want the leaves to be soggy.
Whole leaves are better for compost than leaves that are shredded or mulched with a lawn mower.
Finely chopped leaves may pack down excessively in the compost bin, restricting oxygen infiltration necessary for decomposition. By following these simple guidelines, you can produce fall-leaf compost by late spring. An unattended a pile of leaves may take two to three years to decompose. Permission is hereby given to duplicate this Plant talk Colorado TM script as is if credit is given to the sources.