Leaf mold, a form of compost made solely from leaves, is a valuable soil amendment that improves soil structure, water retention, and provides habitat for beneficial soil life. Making leaf mold is a simple and cost-effective process that can be done using a construction-grade black plastic bag.
Key Facts
- Gather the leaves: Rake or collect a sufficient amount of leaves. Shredding the leaves by running over them with a lawn mower can speed up the decomposition process.
- Prepare the bag: Use a construction-grade black plastic bag and place it over an empty garbage can.
- Fill the bag: Place the collected leaves into the bag. Compress the leaves to pack as many as possible into one bag. Loosen the bag from the rim of the garbage can several times to remove air pockets.
- Moisturize the leaves: Moisten the leaves by inserting a hose into the opening of the bag and soaking them. This will help create the ideal conditions for decomposition.
- Create entry holes: Poke holes all over the bag’s surface with a screwdriver, scissors, garden fork, or any sharp implement. These holes will serve as entry points for worms and other decomposers.
- Set it aside: Tie the bag closed, leaving an opening for the hose. Place the bag in a part of the yard or garden that receives rain. The bag should be left undisturbed for a year or two.
- Turn the bags: After six months, turn the bags over to ensure even decomposition.
- Check for readiness: After 12 to 18 months, the leaf mold should be broken down into flaky one-inch particles of a rich, dark brown color. It should have an earthy smell, similar to the forest floor after a rain shower.
Materials Required
- Construction-grade black plastic bag
- Empty garbage can
- Rake or leaf collector
- Shredder (optional)
- Hose
- Screwdriver, scissors, or garden fork
Steps
1. Gather and Prepare the Leaves:
- Rake or collect a substantial amount of leaves.
- Shredding the leaves using a lawn mower can accelerate the decomposition process.
2. Prepare the Bag:
- Place a construction-grade black plastic bag over an empty garbage can.
3. Fill the Bag:
- Place the collected leaves into the bag.
- Compress the leaves to pack as many as possible into one bag.
- Periodically loosen the bag from the rim of the garbage can to eliminate air pockets.
4. Moisturize the Leaves:
- Insert a hose into the opening of the bag and soak the leaves.
- This step creates the ideal conditions for decomposition.
5. Create Entry Holes:
- Poke holes all over the bag’s surface using a screwdriver, scissors, garden fork, or any sharp implement.
- These holes serve as entry points for worms and other decomposers.
6. Set Aside:
- Tie the bag closed, leaving an opening for the hose.
- Place the bag in a part of the yard or garden that receives rain.
- Leave the bag undisturbed for a year or two.
7. Turn the Bags:
- After six months, turn the bags over to ensure even decomposition.
8. Check for Readiness:
- After 12 to 18 months, the leaf mold should be broken down into flaky one-inch particles of a rich, dark brown color.
- It should have an earthy smell, similar to the forest floor after a rain shower.
Conclusion
Making leaf mold in a bag is a simple and effective way to create a valuable soil amendment. By following these steps, you can transform fallen leaves into rich, nutrient-rich leaf mold that will enhance the health and productivity of your garden soil.
References:
- https://www.gardeners.com/how-to/leaf-mold/8614.html
- https://www.treehugger.com/dont-get-rid-of-those-leaves-make-garden-enriching-leaf-4863406
- https://www.thespruce.com/making-and-using-leaf-mold-2539475
FAQs
What is leaf mold and why is it beneficial?
Leaf mold is a form of compost made solely from leaves. It improves soil structure, water retention, and provides habitat for beneficial soil life. It is a valuable soil amendment that can enhance the health and productivity of garden soil.
What materials do I need to make leaf mold in a bag?
You will need a construction-grade black plastic bag, an empty garbage can, a rake or leaf collector, a shredder (optional), a hose, and a screwdriver, scissors, or garden fork.
How do I prepare the leaves for leaf mold?
Rake or collect a substantial amount of leaves. Shredding the leaves using a lawn mower can accelerate the decomposition process.
How do I fill the bag with leaves?
Place the collected leaves into the bag. Compress the leaves to pack as many as possible into one bag. Periodically loosen the bag from the rim of the garbage can to eliminate air pockets.
How do I create the ideal conditions for decomposition?
Insert a hose into the opening of the bag and soak the leaves. Poke holes all over the bag’s surface to create entry points for worms and other decomposers.
How long does it take to make leaf mold in a bag?
It takes about 12 to 18 months for the leaf mold to be ready. After six months, turn the bags over to ensure even decomposition.
How do I know when the leaf mold is ready?
The leaf mold is ready when it has broken down into flaky one-inch particles of a rich, dark brown color. It should have an earthy smell, similar to the forest floor after a rain shower.
How do I use leaf mold?
Leaf mold can be dug or turned into the soil between seasons, used as a top dressing or mulch, or even mixed with water to create a “tea” that can be used for watering roots or as a foliar spray. It is also great to use in containers because of its ability to retain water.