Local gardener turns fallen foliage into fertile soil
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
In Lennoxville, Yohan Cyr is transforming an autumn nuisance into an invaluable resource. By collecting fallen leaves from around the area, Cyr has found an innovative way to enrich the soil in his garden while promoting sustainable practices.
“Leaves are a game changer,” Cyr said during a recent interview on the scene. “We use them mainly for mulching and compost, which helps set up a sustainable permaculture system. Instead of importing organic material and burning fossil fuels, we mimic natural processes.”
Cyr’s approach is rooted in permaculture principles, aiming to replicate the balance of stable ecosystems like forests. “If you look at a forest, it’s been stable since the glaciers melted,” he explained. “Trees drop leaves, which decompose and maintain fertility. We do the same, ensuring the soil remains fertile while blocking weeds and improving water retention.”
By gathering leaves locally, including from nearby Sherbrooke, Cyr minimizes costs and emissions. “It’s just free mulch,” he said. “Last year, we saw incredible results. Mixing soil with decomposed leaves raised the depth and quality of our beds. Now, we’re growing better root vegetables, like carrots and daikon radishes, that thrive in enriched soil.”
Cyr’s garden is a testament to biodiversity, hosting a mix of vegetables, ornamental plants, and perennials. “The more diverse the plants, the more balanced the ecosystem,” he noted. “Different smells confuse pests, and everything is intermixed, just like in nature.”
Despite the challenges of farming, Cyr embraces the physical work. “I’m getting strong—no need for the gym,” he joked. Preparing the garden for winter is a priority, and Cyr is racing against the first frost to spread leaves and protect the beds. “I want the garden ready for spring,” he said, adding that even root crops like celery and leeks can survive the winter with proper care.
The farm is also a hub for community and education. With help from a small team, including two women who live on the farm, Cyr preserves food for winter and explores agro-tourism. “Agriculture is one of the most important jobs, but it’s underpaid and undervalued,” he said. “Still, the community feeling and activities with children make it worthwhile.”
Cyr hopes to make his garden more accessible to the public in the future. “For now, I’m focused on building a team, but I’d love to create a space for activities and demonstrations,” he said.
Through his dedication to sustainability, Cyr demonstrates how thoughtful actions—like collecting leaves—can have a profound impact. His garden not only nourishes the soil but also cultivates a deeper connection between people and the environment.
