Q: I have a question about compost. My neighbors have two eucalyptus trees, which shed many leaves into my yard.ย Are these good to put into the compost or not? I have concerns because of oil they may have in the leaves.
A:ย Eucalyptus leaves are fine for compost. They need to be broken down like any plant matter put into compost so that any compounds that are otherwise harmful will be neutralized. The oil that you refer to has been reported to interfere with germination in some plants but that is not something to be concerned about with composted material.
Peter L. Warren is the urban horticulture agent for the Pima County Cooperative Extension and the University of Arizona. Questions may be emailed toย tucsongardensage@gmail.com
