Mulching

There are many ambiguities when it comes to gardening; plants that thrive, synthetic versus organic fertilizers, wildlife deterrents, etc. However, one certainty you can count on is that mulch is good for all gardens. Not only is mulch aesthetically pleasing, but it also has several practical benefits.

One of the primary benefits of mulch installation is that it retains moisture, and thus, reduces the amount of supplemental irrigation needed. It helps control soil erosion by softening the impact of rainwater. It also improves soil quality via decomposition. One benefit that gardeners especially like is that it helps to control weeds. With all these benefits it’s no wonder why mulching is so popular!

Mulch comes in many different colors and textures so that it is easy to find one that will suit the needs of most landscapes. The type of mulch that should be used depends on the color desired and the amount of wind on site.

Many ask when is a good time to mulch, and luckily it can be done any time of the year and should be reapplied every two to three years to make up for the loss due to decomposition and wind. Typically, only 1/3 of the original amount needs to be added. It is generally recommended that the mulch be applied 3” thick. If it is too thin it might lead to weed issues and not hold in moisture very well. If it is too thick it might not let enough light and water pass through for optimal plant growth. When applied properly, mulching has many practical benefits.