Mulching With Leaves

If I want to use fallen leaves as mulch, can I just put them over my garden or do I need to do other preparations first?

Question: If I want to use fallen leaves as mulch, can I just put them over my garden or do I need to do other preparations first?

Answer: Fallen leaves can serve as a good organic mulch. Medium to large leaves should be shredded first, then applied to the garden. This will help them stay in place and break down faster, and it will prevent matting, which could smother plants and lead to rot. Leaves that are small to begin with don't need to be shredded.

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