What can I do with fallen leaves from my garden, according to Helen Hutchings Cox?

Helen Hutchings Cox suggests leaving them where they fall, using them as mulch, adding them to compost, or storing them for a year to make leaf mould.

How does the Royal Horticultural Society suggest using autumn leaves?

The Royal Horticultural Society recommends recycling leaves to create leafmould, a natural soil enhancer, by storing them in bags or enclosures for a couple of years.

What are the benefits of leaving leaves in the garden?

Leaving leaves improves soil quality, provides habitats for insects, and helps animals find shelter during winter.

Home / Lifestyle / Don't Bin Leaves: Unlock Garden Gold!

Don't Bin Leaves: Unlock Garden Gold!

14 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Fallen leaves can be transformed into valuable soil enhancers.
Leaving leaves improves soil and provides shelter for wildlife.
Composting or bagging leaves for a year creates rich leaf mould.

As winter blankets gardens, a common impulse is to clear fallen leaves. However, horticultural experts strongly advise against discarding them, highlighting their immense value for garden health. These leaves are not mere debris but potent resources that can significantly enhance soil quality and support local ecosystems.

Instead of binning, leaves can be directly applied as mulch to garden beds, where they will naturally decompose over winter. Another effective method involves adding them to compost bins or worm farms. For those seeking a refined soil conditioner, leaves can be bagged and stored for approximately one year to produce nutrient-rich leaf mould.