Image via Gregs Landscaping
Spring is the perfect time to get your garden ready for the upcoming growing season by applying mulch. Topping the soil surface off with this protective blanket will promote healthy plant and flower growth, as well as save you time and energy later on.
Here’s what it does:
- Improves the health of soil structure by providing nutrients to the earth as it breaks down
- Reduces soil erosion by preventing it from getting washed away in the rain or blown away in dry weather
- Conserves water and cuts down on your time spent watering plants and flowers by stopping them from getting too soggy or too dry
- Suppresses weeds and makes them much easier to control
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- Using stones as mulch is a great way to keep pesky weeds at bay. Image via quinn.anya
Keep in mind that there are two types of mulch, and careful consideration of your garden needs will help you choose which type to use. Inorganic mulch, such as gravel or rocks, lasts a long time and can help keep weeds away.
Wood chips add beauty and nutrients to any garden. Image via cdsessums
Organic mulch includes shredded bark, wood chips and compost. This mulch type is great for use as a top-dressing for plant beds because they provide valuable nutrients as they decompose.
Trees can benefit from proper mulching too! Image via organic maven
It’s important not to use too much mulch. Layer your garden with about two inches of mulch (no more than three) every year for compost mulch and every two to three years for wood chips. Be careful not to apply mulch against the trunk of trees or shrubs. Keep it at least a few inches away to prevent trunk rot due to moisture buildup.
Before you start on any outdoor garden project take a look at our Garden Center online. We have everything you need to get your garden growing and blooming for many seasons to come. Or stop by your local Home Depot store, where one of our Certified Nursery Consultants can answer your questions and help you create a beautiful, thriving garden.
