How to Make Living Soil from Dry Autumn Leaves
Words by Mehar Pandya
Did you know that according to the World Atlas of Desertification, over 75% of global soils are already degraded? Soil health directly affects food security, biodiversity, and ecosystem health.
The good news? You can help regenerate the earth right from your balcony or backyard by making your own nutrient-rich Living Soil.
DIY Living Soil Recipe
Instead of burning or discarding fallen leaves, use them to build dynamic, microbial soil using this simple method:
1. Collect & Crush: Gather fallen dry leaves and crush them into smaller pieces.
2. Mix the Ratio: Combine 3 parts crushed leaves, 1 part garden soil, and 1 part composted manure.
3. Moisten: Add water until the mixture is damp to the touch, but not waterlogged.
4. Cure: Store the mix in a cool, damp location out of direct sunlight for 4 weeks.
After four weeks, you'll have rich, living soil teeming with beneficial microbes ready to feed your potted plants and beds!
Source & Inspiration: Content adapted from Treewalks.