As you know, at sort style and stage, we love everything house and home so whenever we have an opportunity to learn something new which will add value, we want to know more so we can share this with you, our wonderful community.
If you have trees in your garden you're probably spending time collecting them and then disposing of them (we certainly are!).
In parts of the US, they have what they call leaf collection days - here's an example of a notice relating to the State off Illinois setting out how they go about it. In short, Homeowners blow or rake fallen leaves from their gardens into big piles in the street. A lorry then comes and vacuums the leaves away! Now there's a new fact for you. We've never heard of this happening in the UK, have you?
Did you Know?
That when leaves are incorporated into the soil, they:
add nutrients, including phosphorous and potassium
increase the soil’s microbial life
boost the soil's water-holding capacity
improve the soli's structure, known as tilth
Turn Your Leaves Into Valuable Resources
Instead of sweeping them or burning them, here are 4 ways to get real value from leaves to save yourself time and money too!
1. Mow Leaves Into the Lawn
If you have a mulching lawn mower, this will combine, shredded leaves and grass clippings and as a result will add carbon (leaves) and nitrogen (grass) to the soil. In turn this will reduce the need to add shop-bought fertilisers next spring.
Here's what a mulching lawn mower looks like - very similar to a mower, don't you think?
Image: Makita. This model is currently priced at £239.95.
2. Add Leaves to Vegetable Beds
Whole or chopped leaves can be added to any cleared-out vegetable beds. The majority of these will decompose and any left over in spring can be mixed into the soil. Your plants will certainly have a head start.
3. Make a Leaf Mould
Collect all the leaves into a designated area in the garden or pile them into a Leaf Mould - you can make your own using chicken wire.
Image: Gardner's World
And here's an example of a shop bought leaf mould, sold by Manufactum, priced at £78.
Over time, the leaves decompose into a rich, black, soil-like substance that is fabulous mulch for plants.
4. Mix leaves Into a Compost Pile
If you have the space, store dried leaves and in summer, add them to your compost pile. The dried leaves will add carbon and so help with the composting process.
Let us know which of the above tips worked best for you to info@sortstyleandstage.com. Remember as usual, to include your photos - we'll add them here.
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