Moisture Retention – A healthy layer of mulch retains water and reduces rapid evaporation.
Amends Soil – Using non-dyed mulches adds organic matter to the soil much like how a forest floor creates organic matter.
Weed Suppression – Maybe our client’s favorite reason to mulch. Get your weekends back by not allowing soil contact with weed seeds, discouraging germination and suffocating small existing weeds.
Regulate Temperatures – Mulch provides an insulation like blanket to the plants in your beds helping shield them from extreme temperatures.
Aesthetics – Mulch simply makes beds look good! Provides a uniform look to beds and increases contrast with plants, turf and structures.
How to Mulch?
Mulch to a total depth of 2-3” (More than this and you will need to consider removing some mulch so your plants don’t get suffocated!)
Don’t create mulch volcanoes against the trunks of trees or stems of shrubs. Ensure root coverage but not shoots and branches as they prefer open air.
Fluff the mulch to prevent crust buildup and aid in breaking it down.
Don’t bury perennials – even the emerging ones. A little layer to add color is ok but nothing more than half an inch.
Keep mulch 3-4 finger widths away from the trunk of trees and shrubs to reduce rotting and insect damage
