How do I make leaf mould (mulch)?

Large amounts of leaves can be transformed into leaf mould. The leaves need to be stored in simple wire mesh container (at least 1m x 1m x 1m in size) to prevent the heap from drying out. If space is limited, you can use black plastic dustbin bags with a few holes pierced in the sides and base.

Collect leaves when they are wet after rain. Keep them damp and leave them to decay. As soon as they have started to break up and darken in colour they can be used as mulch or dug into the soil. This may be ready by the following spring, or it may take a year or two, depending on the type of leaves used and how moist they are.

You can speed up the process by shredding the leaves before heaping them up. If you mix some grass in with chopped leaves this will also help to speed the process slightly.