Turn autumn leaves into leaf mould

Use this guide in autumn when leaves pile up on lawns, paths and patios. You need a rake or leaf blower on collect mode, a few strong bin bags or a simple wire mesh cage, and a watering can.

Step by step

1. Collect the right leaves

   Rake up leaves from lawns, paths and patios, where they block light and become slippery. Most deciduous leaves work, and oak, beech and hornbeam break down well. Tougher leaves such as sycamore, horse chestnut and plane are slower, so shred them first by running a mower over them.