BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine’s Catherine Mansley recently took to the publication’s dedicated podcast to talk about a soil improver that she claims is “like magic” for its structure
A “completely free” garden material that’s simple to make and “effective” will give your soil a boost (Image: Getty Images)
A “completely free” gardening material that’s simple to make and “effective” will reportedly give your soil a boost, and its one ingredient is readily available everywhere in the autumn. 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.
Opening a recent episode, Catherine said: “It may not be sexy, and it certainly isn’t about instant gratification, but it is free and easy,” adding that she was, of course, “talking about leafmould”.
In her description of leafmould, a conditioner formed from decaying leaves, Catherine dubbed it one of the “easiest, most effective, and completely free soil improvers you can make at home”.
She explained that, unlike traditional compost (which may be comprised of things like kitchen scraps and garden waste), leafmould is generated entirely from decomposed leaves and is “like magic” for soil structure.
Leafmould is generated entirely from decomposed leaves
(Image: Getty Images)
Leafmould helps make heavy soil lighter and assists sandy soil in holding onto moisture, Catherine continued, adding that it “boosts soil life” and that it’s loved by both worms and microbes.
Emphasising that leafmould costs nothing, Catherine also pointed out that autumn is, for obvious reasons, the ideal time to start creating 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 ideally be akin to a “damp sponge” (you might need to add water if necessary), 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 states that leafmould older than two years can be used for seed-sowing compost. It can also be mixed with compost, soil and sharp sand to create potting compost.
It also highlights that all leaves (and indeed, 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 its uses, according to the RHS, including as a soil improver, mulch, or lawn top-dressing during autumn.
The RHS further emphasises that gardeners should avoid using the material in areas where weed seeds could be a problem, as your piles of leafmould could potentially be “colonised” by them.
Another possible problem could be that the gathered leaves are contaminated with litter if collected from the streets. To address this, the RHS suggested that people simply sort them before using them.
You can find out more about leafmould on the Gardeners’ World website.
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