The Benefits of Mulching | Gardening Advice

There are many benefits of mulching your garden. Not only do organic mulches help plants and trees retain moisture and prevent weed growth, they also enrich soil and add a cleaned up, well-manicured look to landscapes. Mulch is also helpful in protecting young and vulnerable plants and shrubs in winter. Although it can be applied at anytime of the year, springtime, after plants are in the ground and established, is the preferred time for gardeners to mulch.

Mulch Choices Although there are synthetic mulches available commercially, organic options have the added benefit of nutrients being slowly released as the mulch decomposes. Popular organic mulch choices include: shredded bark, wood chippings, straw, pine needles, coffee grounds. Mulch Depth Mulches should typically be applied about 2-3 inches deep for best results, although this can vary depending on the type of mulch being used and the type of soil it is being applied to. To determine the best mulch depth, look at the natural moisture content in the terrain it is being applied to. For example: sandy, loose soils benefit from a denser mulch to retain moisture. Wet soils (soils that easily compact when a handful is squeezed together) do not need a thick layer of mulch, as this type of soil adequately retains moisture. The density of the mulch itself  should also play a role in deciding how much to apply. For example: if you are using a fine mulch medium such as coffee grounds, a one inch layer should be sufficient. If you are using a heavier medium such as shredded bark or wood chips, go for 2-3 inch layers. Important Mulching Tips Do not over-mulch. Applying too much mulch can encourage rot and disease on trees and plants and also attract slugs. Never stack mulch against tree trunks or plant stems. Leave a few inches between the base of the tree or plant and the mulch.  Tender seedlings and new shoots should not be mulched around, as the soil is already moist and aeration is needed at this time in the plant’s life. Don’t use mulch in adapted wetland vegetation areas, as mulching  can interfere with the growing process.