leaf mold

American  

Or leafmold

noun

1. a compost or layer of soil consisting chiefly of decayed vegetable matter, especially leaves.

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Etymology

Origin of leaf mold

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

Coarsely mulched soil that’s rich in organic matter, like leaf mold, supports good soil biology, consisting of beneficial fungi and larger soil organisms such as earthworms, millipedes and ground beetles.

From Seattle Times

I've got three ingredients in my potting compost: one-third compost, one-third rotten down leaf mold, and one-third loam that I've got from molehills in my field is perfect.

From Salon

Bark, manure, leaf mold and compost are among the organic amendments commonly used to improve clay soil, Brewer said.

From Seattle Times

While you are doing this, add loads of organic matter, such as leaf mold, to the soil, which will elevate the beds a little and allow them to hold more moisture.

From Washington Post

I like to use purchased composted leaf mold and aged manure, which, in my experience, are reliably free of weed seeds.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• fertilizer