In November, many summer residents rush to burn fallen leaves to clean the area. But in fact, this is a free fertilizer, which, if used correctly, turns into loose, fertile soil by spring.
Experienced gardeners do not remove foliage, but place it in the soil under fruit bushes: currants, raspberries, gooseberries, blackberries. Over time, it rots, turning into natural compost, which retains moisture in the spring and summer, creates a breeding ground for earthworms, protects the roots from frost and reduces the growth of weeds in the spring.
How to do it right:
- Collect dry foliage without signs of fungus or scab.
- Cut it with a scythe, lawnmower, or simply trample it, this will help it decompose faster.
- Dig shallow trenches 15–20 cm around the bushes at a distance of 30–40 cm from the stems.
- Fill the trenches with leaves and tamp down lightly.
- Sprinkle a 5–7 cm layer of soil on top.
By spring the foliage will almost completely rot. The soil will become fluffy, warm and fragrant, and the berries will grow larger, sweeter and juicier because the roots will have a soft, rich environment in which to grow.
Question and answer:
Do I need to cut the foliage before burying?
Yes, shredded leaves decompose 2-3 times faster.
Is the method suitable for raspberries and currants?
Yes, it is under the berry bushes that the foliage gives the maximum effect.
How much foliage does one bush need?
2-3 buckets per adult bush is enough.
