Making Sure It's Gone To Rot

Fallen leaves will eventually make a wonderful mulch for the wildlife garden, says Val.

- Val Bourne

WE’RE celebrating having been at Spring Cottage for 12 years, and at this time of year we’re ankle-deep in beech leaves because there are several mature trees close to the house. This year they’re a lovely shade of russet-brown, and as it’s been relatively dry collecting them has been a real pleasure. I’m reminded of the American poet Robert Frost (1874-1963), who wrote in Gathering Leaves: “I make a great noise… Of rustling all day… Like rabbit and deer…Running away.”