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dence that compost helps fight off some common soil-borne disease problems.
If composting is not your cup of tea, there are other uses for leaves.
They can be spread on a garden site and turned under to break down over winter.
This is good method of adding organic matter to the soil; however, they won’t break down in time for early crops like lettuce, onions, and peas.
You’ll have to rake the area thoroughly to remove the undecomposed remains, or risk having a population explosion of slugs. But, if broken down by the time warm-season vegetables and flowers are ready to plant in May.
Another use for leaves is as mulch.
Trees, shrubs, and garden beds can be mulched in the fall with leaves. As they break down they will enrich the soil.
Chopped leaves tend to pack down a little better and are less prone to blow away.
However, I’ve found that in an exposed area, nothing will keep them from blowing away before the winter is over.
I hope everyone will try recycling at least a portion of their leayes this year.
If you don’t have any leaves, I’m sure your friends and neighbors will give you all you want.
For additional tips on composting, call the Extension Office for the information packet on composting compiled by the Fauquier County Master Gardeners. The phone number is 347-8650.
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