Composting Leaves in Plastic Bags: Will It Work by Spring?

Question

If shredded leaves are left in a perforated plastic bag outdoors, will they compost by spring?

Expert Assessment

Decomposition will be slow—cold winter temperatures limit microbial activity, and bags restrict oxygen. Better method: pile leaves (4 ft tall × 6 ft wide) in a corner, dampen, add 1 pint 10-10-10 fertilizer. "Black gold" by late spring.