leaf mold

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.

For me, loam from my mole hill, compost, and also leaf mold, fallen leaves allowed to rot down in a bag for a year or two, provide the most amazing medium.

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

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.

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