Leaf drop is a very important part of the seasonal cycle in this part of the norther hemisphere, and especially important for deciduous trees. When leaves fall to the ground, they slowly begin to decompose and decay. This is when the leaf breaks down and goes back to its original components such as sugars, fibres, and nutrients. The main decomposers are creepy crawlies such as woodlice, slugs, snails, worms and bacteria. A further major decomposer of leaves is fungi or mushrooms! You see these a lot in woodlands and forests and there are literally hundreds of different types!
Although we don't like to think too much about rotting leaves and slimy slugs, this is actually a hugely important process and our woodlands wouldn't survive without it. The process of decomposing releases nutrients back into the soil and these can then be taken up by the plants and trees again in the spring, ready to grow new leaves, buds and blossom.
It is wonderful seeing all the fallen leaves on the ground in our local parks and wooded areas; however, there is sometimes the temptation to get rid of the leaves that we have in our back gardens and yards to make them look neater and prettier. Maybe this year, think about leaving some of the leaf litter on the ground or putting them into a compost bin where they can continue rotting down naturally and then add the goodness back into the soil. They won't do any harm lying on the ground, and they may even boost your garden's richness and biodiversity next year!
Click here to read more about the Wildlife Trusts' 'Leave a Wild Corner' campaign.
