According to Dieter Coppens , known for the #LaatZeLiggen campaign, simple interventions can make gardens much more resilient and less dry. By leaving autumn leaves, small soil creatures process them into raw material for a humus layer that retains water like a sponge and protects plants from dehydration.
Coppens states that autumn leaves are 'pure gold' and valuable for the garden. He advises keeping them in the garden, either by leaving them where they fall or by raking them into borders and hedges. This nourishes plants and trees, and provides shelter for hedgehogs, birds, and insects.
For those who want to go further, making leaf compost is simple: collect leaves, moisten them if dry, put them in a bag with holes, and leave them in a shady spot for about a year. This yields an excellent soil improver.
Humus is considered a 'blanket' in winter and a 'sunshade' in summer. A good humus layer prevents wilted plants and promotes soil life, which in turn attracts birds and hedgehogs. Coppens emphasizes this is a win-win situation with less work.
He understands that many people prefer a tidy garden but argues that a 'brushed-off' garden feels like a desert to animals. He advocates letting nature take its course, possibly by shredding leaves with a lawnmower or removing them from paths. Reusing leaves under hedges and trees prevents drying out and ensures water reaches the roots.
Coppens discourages the use of leaf blowers due to noise, exhaust fumes, and the displacement of important small creatures. A rake is a more peaceful and 'mindful' alternative. He encourages initiatives where municipalities offer free leaves for gardens and food forests.
He finds it 'madness' that people spend so much time and effort removing leaves only to buy compost. He calls for more common sense and urges people to 'become lazier'.
The advice applies to all gardens, large and small. Coppens stresses that all gardens together form Belgium's largest nature reserve. He hopes more people will let their gardens become wilder and more natural, leading to more life and harmony. Together, we can contribute to the climate puzzle.
More information and tips can be found at www.laatzeliggen.be. Participants who register by December 15th have a chance to win a garden rake.
