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Why Are Leaves Valuable to the Gardener?
It’s simple. When incorporated into soil, fall leaves:
It’s simple. When incorporated into soil, fall leaves:
- Add nutrients, including phosphorous and potassium
- Increase the soil’s microbial life
- Boost its water-holding capacity
- Improve its structure, known as tilth
1. Mow Them Into the Lawn
2. Add Them to Vegetable Beds
3. Make Leaf Mold
4. Mix Leaves — Shredded or Not — Into a Compost Pile Now, Where They’ll Break Down Over Winter
5. Protect Outdoor Potted Plants