Collect fallen leaves
Use dry, disease-free leaves when possible
Shred the leaves to speed decomposition
Place the leaves in a wire bin, pile, or compost bag
Moisten the leaves until they are damp like a wrung-out sponge
Keep the pile loosely packed for airflow
Turn or mix the pile occasionally
Add more water if the pile dries out
Wait until the leaves break down into dark, crumbly material
Use the finished leaf mold as a soil amendment, mulch, or potting mix ingredient