As autumn sets in and leaves begin to blanket the ground, many people view this as a sign to start raking and clearing their gardens. However, it's important to consider the crucial role these fallen leaves play in sustaining ecosystems.
Fallen leaves are nature’s way of enriching the soil in which plants grow. As they are consumed by fungi, bacteria, and other organisms in the soil, the decomposition process releases nutrients that plants need and improves the soil structure to make it a better home for plants’ roots. Fallen leaves can also be useful to small animals that rely on these pockets of foliage to keep warm over the winter months.
It is a perfect enclosed system, until we get in the way; local authorities in the UK tend to collect fallen leaves and send them to be disposed of either at composting plants or incinerated to produce electricity or heat. For example, Westminster Council anticipates gathering approximately 1,000 tonnes of leaves to generate 530,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity, enough to power an estimated five million hours of television or boil 5.3 million kettles.
Policies needs to shift towards composting. Many plant and soil scientists say that autumn leaves should be left to break down naturally, as they provide food, shelter, and nesting materials for birds, mammals, and invertebrates. Composting soil not only entails environmental benefits like conserving water and reducing water use by helping soils retain moisture, but also financially, by reducing the need for toxic chemical fertilisers.
Decaying leaves are far more than seasonal litter; they are an ecological resource of immense value. By embracing the natural cycle of leaf fall, we support biodiversity and help to create a thriving environment for wildlife.