Do Composted Leaves Need To Be Supplemented?

Question

I have actively been composting my leaves in the fall for a couple years now, so I’m beginning to produce some beautiful looking compost/soil. It is composed almost entirely of leaves, however – lots of oak and maple, primarily. My question is: is this beautiful looking/smelling compost likely to be deficient in nitrogen or other micronutrients, and/or is its pH likely to be too low (acidic) because of the predominance of oak leaves? THANKS in advance, Joe

Answer 1

Using, only, one or a few types of leaves will need to be supplemented, unfortunately. You can test your compost with testing kits, or your can have your local extension service do it.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-soil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/soil-ph-plants.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/extension-search

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting