In autumn, the green colour of the leaves, caused by the chlorophyll pigment, is absorbed by the plant, which uses it as a reserve, with other pigments such as carotenes appearing. When this happens, the tree realizes that winter is coming and, therefore, it sheds all the leaves, which fall like blankets on the garden floor.
But what should be done with all the leaf litter when the trees lose their colorful autumn hand and the ground is covered with multicolored leaves? Today we tell you what you have to do and why you should do it.
Benefits of Dried Leaves
Dry leaves can protect the lawn from frost, conserving moisture in the soil and, in addition, they can fertilize the soil by decomposing. Fallen leaves contain up to 80 percent of the nutrients a tree absorbs during the growing season. By allowing decomposition in the soil, it returns all of its nutrients to the soil, where they are reabsorbed by the roots and channeled for a new growing season.
Drawbacks of dry leaves
However, wet leaves are dangerous if left on the floor of a patio or tiled areas, as they form a slippery brown carpet. In addition, it is advisable to remove fallen leaves on tender shoots, grass, evergreens, and grass, as the plants can rot as a reaction to wet leaves. If we leave fallen leaves on the lawn waiting for it to become compost, those leaves will suffocate and kill the grass long before it becomes compost. But that’s not all! The lack of light, air and water can lead to very unsightly brown spots on the lawn and the appearance of insects, fungi and other diseases.
How to clean the garden
To clear your garden of leaves you will need a broom or rake, gloves, dustpan, garbage bags and, if possible, a leaf vacuum cleaner. It is best to clean in areas, starting at the ends, sweeping the leaves into small piles. Then they must be lifted with the dustpan and deposited in a bag to prevent the wind from spreading them again. If desired, they can be lightly stepped on to crush them and reduce their volume. If you want to take advantage of them, you can create compost.
If you want to read similar articles to The importance of removing leaves from the garden soil, we recommend that you visit our Garden Care category.
