LEAF CORRALS

Leaf corrals are an ecologically sound way to utilize the beneficial properties of leaves. The corral keeps them in place from fall winds, containing leaves at the base of trees to enrich the soil and provide nutrients to trees. Leaf corrals have the added value of preventing leaves from being disposed of in landfills.

BENEFIT OF LEAVES

Leaves are vitamins for trees. In a forest, 50-80% of the nutrients that a tree receives is from leaves on the forest floor. As the leaves decompose they release nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and other trace elements into the soil which is used by trees. Fall leaves also provide structural benefits. As natural insulation, leaves protect soil from heavy autumn rains allowing water to gently soak into the ground. This protective layer also helps maintain good soil structure and reduces erosion which is especially important on properties that are on slopes or shorelines.

MATERIALS AND DESIGN

The choice of materials for a leaf corral is dependent on whether it's installed as a seasonal structure or permanent garden feature. Seasonal structures are installed with wire mesh, wood fencing or lattice and supported with garden stakes for easy removal in spring. Permanent features are designed to suit the landscape with options of wrought iron, metal or stonework. Leaf corrals are sized in relation to tree the canopy and are generally round. We would be happy to design a custom corral in a square, hexagon or alternative shape to suit your landscaping. All corrals are nature-friendly to provide optimum ecosystem value to your property!

LEAF CORRAL INSTALLATION

Introductory Service Includes:

Installation of one tree corral (materials included)
Two hours of leaf collection to set-up corral
An inventory of additional trees on property
Recommendation for alternative collection options

Standard Corral $225

Wire mesh fencing

Natural wooden stakes

Low visual impact

Premium Corral $295

Pressure treated wood lattice

Rich dark brown colour

Decorative appeal

ADDITIONAL SERVICES

The following services are priced by the hour

plus the cost of material

Additional leaf corrals

Construction of collection bins

Leaf and yard clean-up

Removal of seasonal tree corrals

Maintenance of collection bins

Mulching garden beds with leaves

Raking leaves from steps, walkways and lawns

Ideas of Interest

Wasps - friend or foe... the truth

Layers under trees

Spring ephemeral gardens, near trees

About Shredding Leaves

The choice of shredding leaves with a mower seems like a logical step in helping leaves decompose but from an ecological standpoint, it is not ideal. Shredding leaves will destroy the many beneficial insects that overwinter in them along their eggs, pupa and larva. Also, from the perspective of landscaping, whole leaves provide more benefit in retaining moisture and soil structure.

Leaf Decay

LEAF LITTER - the initial loose layer of leaves at the onset of fall

DUFF - partially decayed leaves just above the mineral level of soil

HUMUS - the dark rich organic material formed when leaves decay

BIO OLDER

My journey into gardening evolved out of my interest in nature. My love of plants has weaved its way throughout my life, in professional work and as an artist, and has now come full circle with a genuine interest in wanting to make a difference in how we approach gardening.

I'm passionate about plants and their limitless potential in designing a space that includes structure, colour and texture though a recent read of Douglas W. Tallamy's approach to conservation has expanding my view of plants to include seeing them for the benefit they provide the greater ecosystem.

Inspired by Tallamy's movement that 'conservation starts in your yard', my gardening services are a way to bridge the gap that seems to separate conservation, gardening and design. My commitment with Nature Gardens is to bring these three worlds together by providing a service that embraces nature with an emphasis on sustainable gardening practices and an eye for design.

DESIGN WORK ETC

My gardening services are an offering to the community and a step towards embracing ecology that bridges the gap that seems to separate gardening, conservation and design. Nature Gardens is focused on gardening solutions that are practical, empowering and full of hope for a more a future that

commitment with Nature Gardens is to bring these three worlds together by providing a service that embraces nature with an emphasis on sustainable gardening practices and an eye for design.

My professional work with plants has been dynamic, ranging from floral design and organic gardening practices to traditional landscaping. Work experience in Toronto and Muskoka includes floral work, decorative urns, roof top gardens, perennial gardens, greenhouses and the greens department of the film industry.

BIO

My gardening experience was initially inspired by design. Being an artist, I found the creativity of working with plants fascinating. My experience in Toronto included work with various florists, and gardeners that specialize in perennial and rooftop gardens. From a design perspective the experience was invaluable, as it provided an opportunity to develop an eye for structure, colour and texture. It is only in more recent years, and after working with landscapers in Muskoka that I really began to appreciate the greater role that plants have in building biodiversity, and creating places of ecological value. Everything came full circle after reading Douglas W. Tallamy's work and initiative that 'conservation starts in your yard'. While I've always been an avid naturalist, I was never able to bridge the gap that seems to separate nature, gardening and design. My commitment with Nature Gardens is to bring these three worlds together by providing a service that embraces the inherent beauty of nature, with an emphasis on sustainable practices in the garden.

GALLERY INTRO:

Our work is inspired by the plants, animals and land of the Muskoka region. Situated on the Canadian Shield, the area is forested with mixed coniferous and hardwoods and characterized by large outcroppings of barren rock. Muskoka is home to a rich world of flora and fauna, populated by important wetlands and famous for its many lakes and rivers

Writing

Toad Story

My passion for gardening is rooted in my love of nature and interest in all living things. My first landscaping projects were in 'habitat design' as a young child. This is where I would design a 'mini-landscape-in-a-box' for toads to spend the day in. Fortunate to grow up cottaging, nature was my playground and all living things, my friend. A typical day began with the search for a toad, followed by the challenge of designing an environment for them to hop around in. I recall, the smaller the toad, the more inspiring the project! The toads happily complied, and were always released back into nature. My interest in gardening is linked to this appreciation for nature and a desire to share it with others.

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Nature Gardens planting shrubs

Fall is the ideal time to plant shrubs in the garden. Shrubs enjoy the cool, damp weather as a time to establish their roots. This is the time to plant!

Nature Gardens planting for pollinators

While perennials that are native to your region provide indisputable value for pollinators and local ecology, your garden can include much more. Non-native plants and annuals can enhance the design possibilities within a garden, by defining the space, creating atmosphere and adding immediate colour. They also contribute pollen and nectar for wildlife and can include partial, full sun or woodland gardens. For existing perennial gardens, early spring and fall are the perfect time to make changes, transplant, or divide larger plants. New gardens can be started in fall with plants or seed. The cool fall weather creates ideal conditions for plants to establish. We will work with your existing garden to see what plants can be added or we can design a new garden for you.

Nature Gardens transforming lawns

Are you considering some of your lawn as a place for nature and not sure how to begin? We can assist with design options using plants to create natural transitions that enhance habitat and highlight the look of your yard.

Nature Gardens creating habitat

Habitat design involves working with the natural features of your property and using materials that are readily available. A summer frog pond, created by exposing rocky outcroppings is one of many projects to consider for a landscape. Water is an important element for gardens. Bringing water into the garden can be done in the way of setting out ground basins or setting up a bird bath. Providing birds with water is an act of kindness. You will be rewarded by the delight received as you watch these sweet feathered friends, fluttering their wings as they dip in and out of water on a warm summer day. We also help with sourcing bird baths and selecting the right location in your garden. Birds also like water in the spring and fall. Water should be clean and fresh. The bird bath should be placed in a sheltered area that offers safety and protection.

Nature Gardens raking leaves

Fall leaves are gold and they are offered freely every fall. They house all kinds of beneficial insects that enrich the environment while conserving moisture and feeding the soil. We are now specializing in leaf corrals for fall leaves.

NATURE GARDENS

The vision for Nature Gardens is born out of the love of a landscape I've known most my life; first as a cottage, then a home growing up, and now a place I take pride in transforming. Working with a shovel in the ground, restoring native plants and adding habitat features, this less than one acre piece of land is home to a variety of life, some featured in the gallery below. My hope is to inspire others along this path with the services available through Nature Gardens.

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LEAF CORRALS

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