Using leaf mulch for preparation of new ground
Farmer: Alberto Suárez-Esteban
Farm: Nature’s Apprentice Farm
Region: East
Publish Date: August 19, 2026
Article Type: Research Project
Research Priorities: Soil Health
Alberto’s trial measured total carbon, compaction and weed cover in order to determine whether the method was effective at suppressing weeds and benefiting soil health. He demonstrated that thick leaf mulch is a viable way of preparing future growing spaces.
- Soil compaction did not change over time or between treatments, which was potentially also negatively impacted by drought conditions in 2025
- Both one and two layers of leaves with bags successfully reduced weed cover
- Total carbon increased by a small, but statistically significant amount over time