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Article: Autumn Leaves Offer a Golden Opportunity for Creating a Nutrient- Rich Compost Pile
- Article from:
- The Washington Post
- Article date:
- November 4, 2000
- Author:
CopyrightThis material is published under license from the Washington Post. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Washington Post. (Hide copyright information)
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The kaleidoscopic carpet of fallen leaves that our trees are
dropping provides the basis for nutrient-rich compost. And it's free.
Compost is decomposed organic material: trees, shrubs, vines,
flowers, vegetables and fruits. The composting process takes place
when naturally occurring bacteria, fungi, insects and other living
organisms decompose these organic materials. The nutrient-rich
substance that results is also called humus. The fully aged material
is an important element in the installation and maintenance of many
aspects of your landscape design.
A compost heap can be as simple as a pile in your yard, or a
container made from wire mesh, blocks or wooden slats. There are also
a ...