Interviewed by the Polish Press Agency PAP, Bąbelewski emphasised that the fallen leaves contribute to the formation of humus that is nutritious for plants. "It is the most valuable, natural fertiliser accumulating in the soil. It also creates a living environment for microorganisms, a winter shelter for smaller animals and a winter feeding spot for birds such as blackbirds, rooks and woodpeckers," the scientist said. Therefore, he advises moderate raking of leaves or no raking at all, unless it's really necessary for either aesthetic or practical reasons.
"I have no doubt that complete raking of leaves destroys biodiversity and brings only harm to the gardens and, by proxy, their owners. Fallen leaves play a very important role, being a key element of the litter - the living environment of many soil organisms like earthworms and insects such as beetles and larvae," Bąbelewski continued.
The scientist emphasised that birds also look for food in the litter, and decaying leaves and remains of other plants protect the roots and seeds in the ground from the winter frost. "Leaves left on the ground in the garden or on the plot are a guarantee that our next vegetable or fruit harvest will be more abundant, and that our flowers and trees will be more beautiful," the expert said.
Bąbelewski pointed out that the white chestnut tree leaves are an exception, and they should be taken care of due to the invasion of the Horse-Chestnut Leaf Miner butterfly, which harms these trees and feeds on their leaves. "So, the fallen chestnut leaves should be disposed of, e.g. by burying them in the ground - but this is just an exception proving the general rule: in autumn, do not rake the leaves - and your garden or lawn will be very thankful," the expert concluded.
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Source: PAP
