Which Tree leaves are good for compost

Howdy Gardeners,

After sharing – Why to shred leaves while composting I have gathered some info on which leaves is good for composting.

Good  –

Leaves of Maple, Ash, Cherry, Cottonwood, elm, Beech , Birch Tree leaves . Though some people have discussion on Birch and Beech.

Gardening Tip – Most of fruit tree leaves are good for composting. Except Black walnut have some questions.

Acidic / In moderation –

Oaks , Eucalyptus and Pine

In San Diego, following trees are common

• Eucalyptus – Use in moderation in compost
• California sycamore – Good for compost
• Orange Tree  – Good for compost
• Lemon Tree  – Good for compost
• Jacaranda Tree – Hopefully good
• Pine needle – Use in moderation, as they take longer time to decompose. Many use them as mulch and let them decompose slowly in the ground.
• Magnolia  leaves – Because of their waxy ,thick leaves, it take longest time to decay, some people use them as mulch.

I have Pine and Eucalyptus So, I shred the Pine needles and distribute commonly over the ground. But definitely clean the Eucalyptus leaves from ground.

Please share your experience , which leaves you know or you have experience which do good in compost. I have shared for San Diego. It would be great if you can share about your place and preference of tree leaves for compost.

Questions for readers –

Should we consider bamboo leaves for compost ?.

Irene klaus

Basswood leaves are also a good addition in compost.

Mahendra

• Alistonia ( saptaparni  – Indian Name)  : Good to consider for compost
• Ficus Benjamin – Difficult to compost.

Happy Gardening !