As autumn paints the City of Johannesburg with vibrant hues of reds and yellows, courtesy of over three million indigenous trees, it is the perfect time to use the fallen leaves. Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), the steward of the city’s green spaces, including parks, cemeteries, nature reserves, and the Johannesburg Zoo, urges residents to seize this opportunity to harness the potential of autumn’s foliage.

With the onset of autumn, JCPZ notes a surge in requests for tree removal due to fallen leaves causing damage to lawns, drainage systems, and filter pools. Instead of resorting to the removal of healthy trees, residents can adopt eco-friendly practices to preserve trees and leverage fallen leaves for environmental conservation.

Though often perceived as a nuisance, dead leaves serve as valuable assets for gardens and soil fertility. The decomposition of leaves enriches garden soil, enhancing its capacity to yield healthy and nutritious produce while retaining moisture during dry spells.

JCPZ strongly advises against burning leaves during autumn due to the associated risks, including health hazards from harmful chemical emissions and the potential for wildfires, endangering homes and lives. Moreover, burning leaves releases harmful gases like carbon dioxide, which adversely impact wildlife, vegetation, ecosystems, and biodiversity. To mitigate these risks, residents are encouraged to refrain from burning leaves and instead utilise them beneficially or dispose of them responsibly on refuse collection days.

Mulching presents a sustainable solution to use fallen leaves and other organic materials effectively. Mulch, comprising environmentally friendly materials like leaves, plant debris, and vegetable peels, offers numerous benefits for garden soil:

• Suppresses weed growth by blocking light.

• Retains soil moisture, reducing water loss.

• Moderates soil temperatures.

• Prevents erosion.

• Shields sensitive plants from cold temperatures.

When mulching, opt for organic materials such as leaves, grass cuttings, and vegetable peels, combining them with compost for additional nutrients, promoting natural and healthy composting. By preparing the soil now, avid gardeners can lay the groundwork for a bountiful harvest in the seasons to come.

 

29/04/2024

 

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