The Beauty and the Burden of Autumn Leaves: What to Do (and What Not to Do)

There’s something magical about autumn. Trees blazing with colour, crisp morning air, the satisfying crunch of leaves underfoot. But while fallen leaves might be lovely on woodland walks, they can quickly become a nuisance in your garden.

Whether you’ve got a single mature tree or a whole leafy canopy on your property, knowing how to manage fallen leaves is part of good tree care, and looking after your outdoor space.

Here’s what you need to know about the do’s and don’ts of autumn leaves, and how to make the most of what nature gives you.

Why do trees shed their leaves in autumn?

Before we explore practical tips, it helps to understand why trees drop their leaves in the first place.

As temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten, deciduous trees begin a process called “abscission”. This involves the trees sealing off the vessels that supply water and nutrients to their leaves. This helps the tree conserve energy and moisture over winter. The leaves, no longer supported, change colour and eventually fall.

It’s a natural, healthy process, but it leaves us with a seasonal chore: the autumn clear-up.

Why it’s important to deal with fallen leaves

A few leaves here and there won’t cause any harm, but large piles left to sit can cause problems, including:

• Slippery surfaces – Wet leaves on paths and patios can become a slip hazard.
• Lawn damage – A thick, damp layer of leaves can block light and trap moisture, leading to patches of mould or dead grass.
• Pests and disease – Decaying leaves can harbour fungal spores and attract unwanted insects, especially around tree bases or in garden beds.
• Blocked drains and gutters – If your trees are close to your house, leaf litter can easily clog gutters and drainage channels.

Tidying up regularly can help avoid these issues, but there are eco-friendly ways to do it that won’t involve endless trips to the tip.

What you SHOULD do with fallen leaves

1. Compost them

One of the best things you can do with dry leaves is compost them. They’re a fantastic source of carbon (or ‘brown’ material) that balances out the ‘green’ materials like grass clippings and vegetable peelings.

If you don’t have a compost heap, consider starting one. It’s a great way to recycle garden waste and create nutrient-rich compost for your soil.

2. Make leaf mould

A bit different to composting, leaf mould is made by piling up leaves and letting them decompose slowly on their own. It takes about a year or two, but the result is a dark, crumbly mulch that’s brilliant for soil structure and water retention.

You can make leaf mould in a simple wire bin or even in black bin bags with a few air holes punched in.

3. Use them as mulch

Shredded or chopped leaves can be spread around trees, shrubs and garden beds as mulch. This helps insulate roots over winter, retain moisture, and suppress weeds – all without costing a penny.

Just avoid piling leaves too close to the base of trunks, as this can trap moisture and lead to rot.

4. Leave some for wildlife

If you’ve got a wild corner of your garden, consider letting a small pile of leaves sit undisturbed. Hedgehogs, insects, and other small creatures rely on leaf litter for shelter, especially during the colder months.

What you SHOULDN’T do with fallen leaves

1. Burn them

It might be tempting to light a bonfire, but burning leaves isn’t great for the environment, or your neighbours. It releases pollutants into the air and is discouraged or banned in many areas. Plus, damp leaves don’t burn well and can create a lot of smoke.

2. Ignore them

Leaving large piles of leaves on lawns, paths or drives can lead to damage, mess, and extra work later on. A little regular clearing goes a long way.

3. Put them in your general waste

If your local council doesn’t collect garden waste, try to find a greener solution than sending leaves to landfill. Composting or using a local green waste service is much better for the planet.

Bonus autumn tips for tree owners

If you’ve got mature trees in your garden, autumn is also a good time to:

• Book a tree inspection – After a summer of growth, a check-up before winter can catch any issues before storms or heavy winds set in.
• Consider light tree pruning – Some species benefit from a tidy-up before winter, especially if branches are getting too close to roofs, fences, or power lines.
• Clear around the base of trees – Don’t let leaves pile up too thickly around trunks, as this can invite pests and fungus.

If you’re unsure whether your trees need attention, it’s always best to get professional advice.

Need help with autumn tree care? Talk to TH Trees Ltd.

Managing your trees through the seasons keeps your garden safe, healthy and looking its best. At TH Trees Ltd, we offer expert tree inspections, pruning and maintenance services across Essex, helping you enjoy the beauty of autumn without the burden.

Get in touch today to book your visit or request a quote.

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