Can I compost evergreen leaves?

Evergreen trees and shrubs have waxy leaves that break down very slowly in a compost heap. Large quantities can successfully be composted when mixed with equal quantities of grass cuttings, shredding first will help them to compost faster. You may wish to compost them separately to make a more acidic compost. This is ideal for rhododendrons, azaleas, blueberries and other acid loving plants, as normal compost is slightly alkaline. Pine needles are also high in acid and resin, and need to be treated in the same way. Laurel leaves contain cyanide so make sure you wear an appropriate mask over your face and stand up wind if you shred them. The poison breaks down into harmless by-products during the composting process.

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