Mulching is a natural way to build up soil and add nutrients, but if you let your leaves stay where they fall they can create a natural habitat for pests and some diseases. If you put your leaves in a compost pile you may notice that many are still intact while the vegetable matter is broken down.

This is because many leaves that fall during autumn contain “liguen” a protein, which rots by fungi instead of bacteria, causing the leaves to take longer to break down.

The best way to make leaf mold is to separate it. Take a large black plastic bag, tie the bag closed, then puncture it all over and store it for about a year. Make sure you give the pile enough time to break down.

Please Leave a Comment

We want to hear from you! In addition to posting comments on articles and videos, you can also send your comments and questions to us on our contact page or at (800) 946-4420. While we can't answer them all, we may use your question on our Homefront radio show, Today’s Homeowner TV show, or online at dannylipford.com.