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Loose leaves

mellz3GmuMx7Ncmellz3GmuMx7Nc Posts: 5
in Problem solving
Hello! I have a bit of a problem with messy dead conifer leaves. We inherited a garden with lots if them and although I can appreciate why previous owners planted them, I find them a complete pain. Not least because of how many leaves (if that's what you call them) they shed. 

I've tried to sieve them out of the soil but that doesn't work. So I'm wondering whether laying a mesh/net would me a  that I could periodically dispose of the dead fallen leaves? Though I don't think this will look great.
Does anyone have any other ideas, preferably tried and tested solutions?
I also wondered about fastening the net to the underside of the tree so the leaves don't fall in the first place but I don't know if this is a silly idea....

Posts

  • mellz3GmuMx7Ncmellz3GmuMx7Nc Posts: 5
    Here are some photos to show the problem. The fallen leaves really seen to effect the soil quality too  :(
  • mellz3GmuMx7Ncmellz3GmuMx7Nc Posts: 5

  • ButtercupdaysButtercupdays Posts: 4,546
    Gently sweep them up with a yard brush.
  • K67K67 Posts: 2,506
    Garden blower or Hoover would work on the slabs. 
    As Buttercup says or a lawn type rake for under the trees
  • mellz3GmuMx7Ncmellz3GmuMx7Nc Posts: 5
    Thanks :) I'll give them all a try.
  • Mike AllenMike Allen Posts: 208
    These leaves or often called, pine needles.  Whilst in their green stage.  They ar acidic and this acidity can and does leach out and down into the soil  This in the case of large amounts can and will often raise the pH acidity level.  Often to counterbalance this, a dressing of hydrated lime will do the trick.

    Now once the leaves/needles have compltely dried out, their acidic property weakens to almost nil.  However due to their natural make-up they can be very useful in the garden.  Don't waste them.  Gather them up and leave in the corner somewhere.  They can be very useful in helping to break down heavey clay soils, using at this stage the pH scale is seldom breached.
  • mellz3GmuMx7Ncmellz3GmuMx7Nc Posts: 5
    Cheers Mike. I appreciate that. 
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    If they're mainly under the conifer, just leave them. They won't adversely affect the soil anyway, despite what anyone says.  :)
    It makes no difference to the soil pH. They gradually work down into the soil. You'd need a huge amount of conifers shedding regularly to alter it. 
    Just brush them aside if you feel it's a problem.  :)
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
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