Leaf Mould

Source Used: http://www.videojug.com/film/how-to-make-leaf-mould

Three Most Interesting Points:

1.      I wouldn’t expect the leaves to take quite so long to decompose. An entire year! On the one hand, it’s frustrating that it can’t be used more quickly; on the other hand, it’s another facet of the poetic harmony in nature that leaves which fall once a year will take a year to decompose, as if lingering until it is sure that the next generation is there to take the torch.

2.       “Rake up the leaves after rainfall, when they are damp, as this will aid the decaying process.” So … no jumping in the leaf piles then? That’s disappointing …

3.       The video mentions that pine needles create an acidic leaf mould. So is the leaf mould made from deciduous trees neutral? Or basic? Does the pH of a composting pile affect its rate or quality?

Question: Is there any way to increase the rate of decomposition?

To Look For: I’d say leaves for composting, but unfortunately we’ve been doing that for a while now because I am terrible and procrastinated on the readings.