The best thing that you could do for the plants is leaf composting. If you’re currently doing it then keep it up however; if you’re just planning to get started and you’re sort of confused as to how to go about it then keep reading as we discussed the best way to compost using leaves. Do you have trees in the garden? Also, obviously we’re gonna be composting leaves, so you need to have a tree however if you don’t, fear not, you can always speak to your friends or your neighbor to utilize the leaves from their trees. I know many people who are so happy to lend a couple of bags filled with leaves. If your neighbors are unable to help you with that then I also suggest you could speak with the local landscaper. Usually, they are extremely happy to give away few bags for obvious reasons it saves them plenty of money and time in all the tipping fees involved.
You must understand that leaves offer an increased carbon source also known as browns for the compost. The nitrogen/ carbon ratio of the leaves is a tad more than 30 but around 50. This means that the nitrogen is low, and this is extremely difficult to find in various other composting materials.
Frequent concerns while composing leaves
You will notice there are to major concerns that you will find especially when you are composting leaves.
Extended time is taken to breakdown: leaves have ligninin varying amounts that resists decomposing. Because of this the leaves can take almost two years to completely decompose.
Prone to mat: this is true especially with leaves that are un-shredded. The leaves match it tends to create a barrier to water and oxygen which leads to a decrease in decomposition, so you must always make sure that you shred the leaves when you are planning to compost.
Using leaves in the garden
There are four amazing ways to optimize and get the best from the leaves in the garden. In order to understand what will work best for your garden and for you will completely depend on the number of leaves that you get, for how long do you plan to decompose the leaves, and the amount of space you currently have. Let’s begin with composting.
Composting leaves
You must have patience because it does require time and effort to successfully composting leaves. Suppose you have the time and space then I must say that composting your leaves is an excellent way to give your garden that extra nourishment. However, you must also be aware that certain leaves will compost effectively in comparison to others.
Great leaves to compost
Leaves that are high in nitrogen and calcium and low in lignin make excellent leaves to compost. These leaves include willow, poplar, fruit tree leaves, maple, and ash. These leaves will definitely break down quicker, about one year’s time.
Composting your leaves from the garden is an excellent idea and I’m confident it will give your garden that extra nourishment however as discussed you must definitely have the patience, time, and space to work it up. In addition, do not forget to shred your leaves before you start the process. Well, I do hope that this has answered your queries. Happy composting!