Searches for ‘garden waste removal near me’ have risen by a staggering 90 percent over the last year which has led to experts warning gardeners not to throw away any garden waste this autumn.
While many may think of spring as prime lawn care season, tending to the garden now will set the stage for a healthy, thriving lawn next year.
Autumn’s fallen leaves can be a gardener’s greatest friend during the colder months, providing natural, and more importantly, free, mulch.
However, it seems Brits are eager to tidy up their gardens, with searches for ‘leaf rake’ rising by 50 percent over the past three months.
So, before throwing anything away, the experts at Gtech have shared what people should do with garden waste this autumn and how it could benefit your lawn.
Leave the leaf litter where it is
If mulching and composting feel like too much work, consider leaving the leaf litter in the garden. This option is better than raking it up and tossing it into the recycling bin.
Even unchopped leaves will naturally decompose, becoming a nourishing fertiliser for the lawn. This layer of leaf litter not only protects your garden from the elements but also helps the garden retain moisture and warmth throughout the winter months.
Mulch your leaves
Mulching leaves is an excellent way to enrich garden soil. With just a few simple steps, gardeners can break down leaf litter so that when it decomposes it retains moisture, keeping the garden lush.
Begin by gathering all the fallen leaves into a single pile for easy access. Once collected, run your lawnmower over the leaves to chop them into smaller pieces, helping to accelerate decomposition.
After shredding, spread the mulch evenly across the lawn and garden beds, making sure not to let it pile up too high or it could suffocate the grass and plants below.
Get composting
For those who have a compost bin or are considering starting one, then autumn is the perfect time to use garden debris for composting.
Start the compost pile by layering dry sticks and leaves at the bottom. This will create air pockets, helping better drainage and faster decomposition. Then add garden clippings and kitchen scraps on top, continuing to do so over the next few months.
Aim for a 2:1 ratio of ‘green’ materials, such as wet leaves, tea bags, and rotten fruit, to ‘brown’ materials, like dry leaves, twigs, and branches.
Once everything is added, mix it up well to add air to your compost pile. In a few simple steps, you’ll have cleared your garden and will have rich compost ready for spring.
