BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine’s Catherine Mansley recently took to the publication’s dedicated podcast to discuss a soil improver that she says is “like magic” for its structure
Matt Davies Trendswatch Reporter
06:00, 19 Nov 2025
A “completely free” garden material that’s simple to make and “effective” will give your soil a boost (Image: Getty Images)
A gardening expert has revealed a “completely free” soil improver that’s straightforward to create and “effective”, with its single ingredient abundantly available during autumn. Catherine Mansley from BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine recently appeared on the publication’s podcast to share details about a soil conditioner she describes as “like magic” for improving structure.
Beginning a recent episode, Catherine remarked: “It may not be sexy, and it certainly isn’t about instant gratification, but it is free and easy,” clarifying that she was, naturally, “talking about leafmould”.
In her explanation of leafmould, a conditioner created from decomposing leaves, Catherine called it amongst the “easiest, most effective, and completely free soil improvers you can make at home”.
She outlined that, unlike conventional compost (which might include items such as kitchen scraps and garden waste), leafmould is produced exclusively from decayed leaves and is “like magic” for soil structure.
Leafmould is generated entirely from decomposed leaves
(Image: Getty Images)
Leafmould will make heavy soil lighter and aid sandy soil in its retention of moisture, Catherine went on, noting that it “boosts soil life” and that it’s loved by both worms and microbes.
Emphasising that leafmould is free, Catherine also pointed out that autumn is, for clear reasons, the ideal time to begin making it. According to both Catherine and the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the best leaves to use are beech, oak or hornbeam.
To create your own leafmould, Catherine advised people to collect their leaves, ensuring they poke some holes (if you opt for black bin bags) for air and to release any additional moisture.
Your leaves should be similar to a “damp sponge”, which might mean adding water if needed, then just tie up the bags or leave your pile and let nature “do the rest”.
Catherine Mansley discussed a soil improver she says is “like magic” for its structure
(Image: Getty Images)
The RHS suggests that leafmould older than two years can be used as seed-sowing compost. It can also be combined with compost, soil and sharp sand to create potting compost.
It also highlights that all leaves, including conifer needles, will eventually decompose into leafmould. However, thicker species like horse chestnut, sycamore and walnut need to be shredded before adding to your pile.
It’s worth mentioning that leafmould less than two years old still has benefits, according to the RHS, such as being a soil improver, mulch or lawn top-dressing during autumn.
It further emphasised that gardeners should avoid using the material in areas where weed seeds could be a problem, as leafmould piles could potentially be “colonised” by them.
Another potential issue is contamination from litter if leaves are collected from streets. To tackle this, the RHS advises sorting through the leaves before use.
More information about leafmould can be found on the Gardeners’ World website.
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