In our climate, plants go dormant for the winter. Shedding leaves is a natural adaptive mechanism. It protects them from frost and drying out when the soil freezes and cannot provide water. Fallen leaves in the natural environment have a protective function. They create a litter layer in which insects and microorganisms hibernate. Organic matter decomposes throughout the winter, enriching the soil and improving its structure. Leaves left in the garden have exactly the same effect. They create protection for the soil and roots of our plants.
Although we associate fallen leaves with sloppiness, it is worth thinking twice before we start raking them. Nobody cleans them in the forest. Raked leaves end up in bio-waste bins, which generates additional recycling costs, so leaving them is a double benefit. Leaves should only be carefully raked in one case if the tree is rife with pests or diseases. Leaving infected green waste over the winter will cause pests and diseases to strike with new force in spring.
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Instead of throwing all the fallen leaves away as waste, leave them where they fell. They will be useful in flower beds, under shrubs or perennials. Only leaves with obvious signs of disease should be removed. The rest can be used for mulching. The layer of leaves improves the soil structure, protects the roots against frost and acts as a natural fertilizer in winter.
Even leaves raked from the lawn, terrace or driveway can be placed on flower beds and under bushes. It is also worth converting them into the so-called leaf soil. This involves leaving them to decompose in bags. A good solution is also to feed them into compost. Thanks to this approach, you save time and work, and at the same time support the health of your garden.
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The layer of fallen leaves acts as natural insulation. It protects plants against cold and limits the leaching of nutrients from the soil. Promotes the development of beneficial microorganisms. The leaves take a long time to decompose, gradually releasing nutrients into the soil. This allows you to limit the use of chemical fertilizers or artificial mulches.
Plants covered by such a “blanket” are less exposed to frost damage and tolerate winter better. As a result, they start stronger in spring, and the garden needs less intensive rescue activities. Leaves are nothing else than organic matter, the decomposition of which improves the structure of the soil. This makes it more permeable, which helps retain moisture and makes it easier for the roots to absorb water and food. A small action such as leaving the leaves will translate into healthier, stronger plants and a smoother start to the new season.
