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Leaves Can Take a Long Time to Break Down

Leaves that have lower lignin levels and higher calcium and nitrogen break down in about a year. Ash, cherry, elm, linden, maple, poplar and willow leaves are in this category.

Leaves that take longer to decompose include beech, birch, hornbeam, oak and sweet chestnut. Those leaves will typically take two or more years to decompose. Oak leaves and others in this group should make up 10 to 20 percent of your pile at most.

A good rule to remember with composting leaves is to know that green leaves can be added at moderate levels, red or yellow leaves should be added in small amounts and brown leaves should be avoided. Also, avoid black walnut and eucalyptus leaves.

Avoid wood and leaves from plants such as pine, spruce, juniper and arborvitae. Also, avoid plants that have been treated with weed killers.

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Other Leaf Compost Options

Another option for those interested in composting leaves is to keep them separate from your regular compost pile and keep the leaves altogether. The process remains much the same as you should mulch your leaves and place in a pile, bin or plastic bags.

You can add water if they’re dry. It will take longer for them to compost, around two to three years but it will make a good mulch.

Learn winter composting 101 so you can hit the spring running.

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