Leaf mould

I've been getting some strange looks in the village as I've been collecting leaves in polythene bags for leaf mould. I've got lots of my own leaves but when they rot down there isn't much left.

 

Good idea Liz.

 

Ooh might give that a try!! Do I just bung them in the compost bin?

 

you can put them in a lack bin bag, Windy, I punch lots of holes in it, and leave it in an out-of-sight corner, and use it a year later. It's not quick....., and you don't get any nutrients (it's all dead stuff, after all, but it's very useful to dig in.
Have a look at the HDRA site leaflet
http://www.gardenorganic.org.uk/factsheets/making_leafmould.php

 

I agree with Dendro. I stick them in bin bags; that way you can store a lot. Next year you can inspect and use the ones that are ready and leave those not ready. But I believe they do not have to be completely composted before you use them. They make an excellent addition to the soil in an only half composted state.

 

Great stuff guys!! Will get the kids out with bin bags on a ramble at the weekend :D

 

If you have a shredder, bung them through that first, and make sure they're wet before you tie them up in the bin-bag, that way they'll rot down faster. :D

 

We use a garden vac/blower that shreds. It's a brilliant tool particularly for getting at the leaves that creep under our hedges.( And yes we do leave some leaves under some of the hedges as shelter for wildlife/foraging birds)
We'll gradually empty the black sacks as layers on the compost heaps next summer.