[avs0020]

Hi folks. Not sure where to post this query. My question relates to the clearing of autumn leaves. Some experts say leave them as mulch and protection from frost. Others say its a source of disease.

Is the dispute related to the area. Obviously I'll rake up the leaves on the path but is it ok to leave in the shrubbery and rose beds?

I've also been told to put th eleaves in black bags and let them rot down and eventually add it to the compost. Is this ok if there is an argument that its a source of disease.

Appreciate any advice on the best use for fallen leaves.

Thanks

[Sive]

Your leaves will make lovely leaf mould, so put them into black bags, and make some holes in the bags. Pop them somewhere out of sight for a year.
Monty Don on tonight's gardener's world on BBC also suggested sweeping leaves under your hedges where they will give cover to insects and small mammals over the winter.

[kindredspirit]

I don't see what harm leaving them in the shrubbery and your rose beds will do. The worms will eventually pull them underground and condition the soil.

I'm finding that the best mulch of all for suppressing weeds is leaf mould. Better than bark chips. I use a builders' one ton bag, stuff all the leaves into it, poss them all down and when they congeal, you have a lovely mulch. You'd have to leave leaves a long while to get decent compost. They're a little bit slow in changing themselves into compost but eventually they do.

[James Kilkelly]

[avs0020]

Great advice from you all, Thanks so much