Depending on where they fall, autumn leaves can be a valuable resource. They can be managed biologically to produce useful organic byproducts, such as compost, leaf mould and mulch.

People have lots of different ideas about autumn leaves but come this time of year, come what may, they are piling up all over. They fill street gutters, blanket pathways and catch in lawns.

Autumn leaves transform from green to gold. (ABC Illawarra: Sarah Moss)Factors behind rich colour palette. Ms Webb said autumn leaves in recent years weren't as vibrant for several reasons.