I had several Leylandii removed from my garden a year ago, and had the stumps ground out. I know that whilst they were growing nothing would grow underneath, and I presume that this was, amongst other things, due to the trees effecting the ph of the soil. I have two questions
What impact on the soil ph would the trees have had?
How long will it take for the soil to return to 'normal'?
Quote; What impact on the soil ph would the trees have had?
How long will it take for the soil to return to 'normal'?
No way of telling really other than to do a pH test.
On establishing that treat accordingly
I doubt whether the trees were affecting the pH, it would be more a matter of deep shade combined with inhibition of other plants. Conifers are pretty good at the latter, but the effect will fade in time. I'm not sure how long it's likely to take.
I have used leylandii chippings as mulch, which has included the leaves. After a year I usually dig it in to improve the soil. It has not killed he plants that it has been mulching, (mainly perrenials) and it lightens up my clay beds. I would say dig it over and start planting with something cheap and see how you go.
I would also go along with R B and say it was mainly the shade and the dryness underneath that has stopped other plants growing.
I removed some leylandii which were over 30 feet tall. Apart from the soil being very dry and infertile [no worms] it was O.K. I put in some growmore and compost and them planted some shrubs which florished. The ground had been so churned up the soil was easy to dig. What ever grows in the rest of your garden should be O.K.
Thanks for the advice, I too have noticed the worms gradually returning. The grass has taken a year to recover. Another dose of manure on the beds this autumn me thinks.