The holidays are a fun time of the year, but it also means there’s fall debris to take care of. If your garden is not composed of evergreens, and the carpet of brown leaves decaying on your grounds just looks like a huge chore to do, then here are 4 reasons not to sweep fall debris.
Fall leaves are rich in nutrients needed by the soil.
Rich in nutrients such as phosphorus and potassium, decaying leaves revitalize your garden soil. Letting it decompose in your yard will yield a better microbial life in your yard and make whatever plant you have in your garden bloom and grow more beautifully. Letting the leaves disintegrate into soil creates a richer ground ready for spring planting.
Fall leaves are your organic fertilizer.
Is your vegetable patch also taking a hiatus this cold and wintry season? It’s the perfect time to mix whole or shredded dried leaves into the soil. As the leaves return to the soil, the vegetables will put out a better quality come next harvest time.
Make it your main ingredient for mulch.
Some gardeners hate winter freezing their soil up. If you use mulch to keep your soil moisturized, spread your dried leaves over the grounds. It will be better if you keep a thicker layer so that your soil is properly covered.
Make leaf mold for an organic garden.
Gather all your dried leaves and put it in a container or dug-out spot where it will remain undisturbed. Make a large pile, and make sure each layer is wet to hasten decomposition. The result will be a purely dark organic matter which then can be used in your vegetable or flower gardens.
Are you convinced yet? We hope these reasons will make you rest easy and put your fall debris to good use!