If you’re looking for a way to spruce up your yard’s landscaping design while servicing the health of your plants and shrubbery, mulch may be the option for you. Available in a plethora of colors and materials, mulch will add the perfect stylistic flair to any landscaping scheme.
What is mulch?
Mulch is a material that is used to conserve moisture and preserve the health of soil. In a way, mulch serves as a protective blanket in many garden landscaping designs; when applied in layers, mulch is able to help soil both maintain heat and keep its moisture, as well as prevent the growth of weeds. This makes it a versatile garden material during the beginning of growing season through the heat of the summer months. Mulch is also favored because of its relatively low cost, and aesthetic value.
What is mulch made of?
Mulch is comprised of many different materials, but its composition can generally be broken down into two categories: organic and inorganic. Organic mulch is made up of naturally decomposing materials, such as pine straw, grass, shredded bark and compost. Inorganic mulch, however, is made of materials that don’t break down, such as stones, weed fabric, and geotextile mats.
How much does mulch cost?
Mulch is one of the relatively inexpensive landscaping supplies available, averaging about $30 per cubic yard. Many companies give away low grade mulch for free, charging only a small delivery fee.
Why use mulch?
Mulch is one of the most versatile gardening materials available, with almost too many benefits to name. Firstly, mulch’s protective layer makes it difficult for weeds to grow, and make weed pulling an easy task for any gardener or landscaper. Secondly, mulch is extremely insulating, so it protects soil from extreme temperature changes that occur in the early spring and late summer. Mulch is also beneficial in extreme weather scenarios such as rain and flooding, as it prevents erosion and runoff from occurring. Additionally, mulch is great for preventing the formation and proliferation of plant diseases.
How do I use mulch?
To use mulch in your garden landscaping design, it is recommended that you plant in the beginning of growing season. When applying, apply a layer of 2-3 inches in thickness, 4 inch maximum if you’re dealing with thin soil such as sand. After application, water the mulch, helping to anchor it and preventing the mulch from absorbing moisture from the soil.
Now there’s not mulch left to do, except to get out there and get planting!