What is leaf compost, and how do you make it yourself?

What exactly is leaf compost?

Leaf compost is compost made entirely of (fallen) leaves. The fungi and bacteria break down the leaves, resulting in very pure compost.

It's ideal for improving your soil, as a mulch layer, or for making your own potting mix and rooting medium.

(Unfortunately) it’s not available in stores or garden centers, but luckily it’s easy to make yourself. However, it’s often difficult to grow large quantities, because you’ll quickly need more space—and, above all, a lot of trees!

What is leaf compost used for? What are its benefits?

Leaf compost is particularly well-suited as a mulch layer.

• It enriches the soil with humus and beneficial bacteria.
• A thick layer blocks out light, so weeds don't stand a chance.
• The soil doesn't dry out as quickly.
• It insulates the soil, causing it to cool more slowly in the winter and warm up sooner in the spring.

In addition, leaf compost works very well as seed-starting, cutting, and potting soil. It doesn't contain too many nutrients, but it does have a good texture, allowing young plants to grow optimally.

When should you add leaf compost?

The best time to add leaf compost is in the spring. If you have enough, you can also add it in the fall.

How do you make leaf compost? And how long does it take to make?

Fall is, of course, the time to make leaf compost. Simply collect all the fallen leaves and pile them up. For example, you can build a container or cage-like structure out of chicken wire. It’s best to shred the leaves, for example, with an old lawn mower or a push mower. This speeds up the process considerably, and the leaves take up much less space. Just like with a regular compost pile, it’s important to turn the leaf compost pile regularly. Also, make sure the pile never dries out.

If you follow the instructions above, you’ll have good leaf compost within six months—just in time for spring. If you want to use it as potting soil or for taking cuttings, it will take about 10–11 months.

Do you have limited space in your garden? You can also make leaf compost by putting (chopped) leaves in a trash bag. Collect damp leaves (or wet them thoroughly) and pack them tightly into the bag. Poke holes in the bottom and place it in an inconspicuous spot in the garden (for example, under the hedge or in a dark corner).

This method does take a little more time. The leaf compost is ready after about 9–11 months.

Which leaves are best suited for leaf compost?

Use only leaves from deciduous trees and shrubs. It is best to avoid using oak and beech leaves—or at least not too many of them—since they decompose much more slowly.