#ParksMatter Why can last year’s leaves still be seen in parks?

As part of the information and communication campaign of the project “City Parks Matter - a new approach to urban green space management in Ivano-Frankivsk and Rzeszów (ParksMatter)”, implemented within the Interreg NEXT Poland – Ukraine 2021–2027 Programme, we share information about modern and environmentally friendly approaches to the maintenance of urban green areas.

Sometimes residents ask why fallen leaves can still be seen under trees in parks in spring. In fact, this is not a sign of neglect but a deliberate and nature-based approach to green space management.

Fallen leaves are an important part of natural processes, that:
- act as a natural mulch, helping retain moisture in the soil;
- protect the roots of trees and shrubs from drying out and temperature fluctuations;
- gradually decompose and return nutrients to the soil, improving its structure;
- create shelter for beneficial insects and small organisms, which are part of the urban ecosystem.

According to the Rules for the Maintenance of Green Spaces in Settlements of Ukraine, leaves in parks and squares should not be raked from under trees and shrubs.

At the same time, for the comfort and safety of visitors, leaves are regularly removed from alleys, paths and playgrounds. The collected leaves are not discarded — they are composted, turning into natural fertilizer.

This approach helps maintain both tidy parks and healthy natural processes, supporting the well-being of urban green spaces.

The project ‘City Parks Matter - a new approach to urban green space management in Ivano-Frankivsk and Rzeszów (ParksMatter)’ is implemented within the framework of the Interreg Next Poland-Ukraine 2021-2027 programme. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of its authors and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Union.

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