You can compost them and use them as mulch. Pound for pound, tree leaves have many more minerals than manure. Mulch the leaves with your lawn mower or power mulcher. Add grass clippings and combine with leaves to start off your yearly compost pile. Keep in a shady protected area, moisten and turn occasionally. Leaves processed this way are a good amendment for the soil.

For help with composting:

• New York Green Up Project
• NYBG Bronx Green-up

And see these helpful guides:

• NYC Master Composter Manual
• Compost Made Easy
• Outdoor Composting Guide

For tips on a variety of gardening topics, see our Plant Information Guides.
- Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service