This year, the stress of a summer burdened with heatwaves has driven leaves to fall earlier than normal, leaving branches bare and gardens full of leaves.
However, the early leaf fall could be secretly beneficial to gardeners, offering a win amidst the loss, according to a garden expert.
“The stress of such a hot summer with limited water means that trees are shedding their leaves earlier than normal to reduce the amount of moisture they need to survive,” David Denyer explained.
“For gardeners, it means leaf fall is happening sooner than expected, and rather than treating them as annoying waste, those leaves can be put to work in the garden straight away.”
Leaves could help protect your much-loved flowers from the brutal frost
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Armed with 35 years of experience, Mr Denyer explained the ways in which an abundance of leaves could help your garden as the cooler temperatures swoop in.
“Leaves have long been used as a natural way to protect plants from the cold,” he said, noting that the extra layer protects the roots of more vulnerable plants on cooler nights.
“If you pile them loosely around the base of tender perennials or root vegetables, they trap air and act like a blanket, helping to keep the soil temperature more stable,” the expert added.
“Dry leaves are always better, because damp ones clump together and don’t insulate as well. It’s a simple, free way to help plants survive an early frost.”
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“When the soil is still warm, roots are active and drawing in nutrients, which makes it the perfect time to add a layer of mulch,” he explained.
The guru said that by spreading leaves around the base, moisture and warmth are “locked in”. Additionally, it assists in enriching the soil as they decompose over time.
Mr Denyer urged gardeners to try out using the excess leaves as mulch for other plants, such as bedding plants, while the temperatures are still helping to keep the soil warm.
Even just a small pile of leaves could help garden wildlife
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“Shredded leaves are best for this, because whole ones often clump together and stop any water from soaking through,” he advised.
It is wise to aim for a layer around 5 to 10 centimetres thick, slightly pulled away from the stems to avoid rot developing around the base of the plant.
Leaves can also offer an opportunity for local wildlife to set up shop, such as hedgehogs, insects and amphibians. Even just a small pile can offer shelter during the frostier months.
“Just make sure any leaf piles are kept away from bonfires or bins so you don’t accidentally put animals at risk,” Mr Denyer said.