Mulch for the Garden:
Easy to use Mulch Calculator
What is MULCH?
To me "MULCH" is like the - Icing on the Cake - keeps the cake moist, tastes "yummy" and looks pretty. :)
MULCH is a protective layer shielding the soil from the harsh elements and temperature fluctuations, as it breaks down it releases valuable nutrients into the soil and enhances the visual look of the garden by making all of the garden beds look neat and tidy.
Why use MULCH?
Mulch holds moisture, modulates soil temperature, suppresses weeds and makes tilth. Mulch also helps prevent heavy rain from leaching out nutrients and curbs soil erosion. It unifies the landscaping and adds curb appeal.
What are the aesthetic benefits of mulch, and how can it enhance the overall look of a garden?
Mulch make all of the garden cohesive. It can get expensive to buy by the truck load, but after the first initial pricing shock, subsequent touch ups of mulch will take a lot less MULCH.
How does MULCH help with weed control in garden beds?
Thick MulCH will block the sunlight, preventing seeds from germinating. Some weed seeds will still blow in and grow, but they're easy to pull out.
How thick should mulch be applied in garden beds to maximize its benefits?
I like at least 3-4 inch. An inch for every year. :)
What are some best practices for applying and maintaining mulch in the garden?
I usually buy a trailer load - 2 cubic yards at the time . I used to shovel it on the wheelbarrow and then shovel it again onto the beds. Now I shovel my MULCH in buckets and either use my garden wagon or the wheelbarrow. Then I either just dump the mulch where I want it or take handfuls. Saves me a step. :)
Are there different recommendations for mulching in spring, summer, or winter?
I like mulching in the spring after a good weeding to suppress weeds, conserve moisture and again in the fall to protect my plants from the winter cold.
Types of Mulches?
Biodegradable and Inorganic MULCHES.
First I use what I have - Biodegradable:
Compost, shredded paper, newspaper, cardboard, chopped leaves, pine needles and grass clippings.
I buy:
landscaping cloth (for weed barrier) straw, peat moss, gravel and cedar bark mulch.
My favourite Biodegradable Mulches to use:
Compost, Peat Moss and Bark Mulch.
My favourite Inorganic Mulch:
Gravel and Stones. :)
Easy Mulch Calculator
Biodegradable Mulches:
Benefits - When to Apply and How to apply:
Mulches: |
Benefits |
Apply - When & How |
|---|---|---|
| Chopped Fall Leaves | Suppresses weeds, moderates soil temperatures and conserves moisture. | When to Apply: I like it in the fall when I have the leaves. How: Apply about 3-4 inch layers. |
| Compost | Build Tilth. Fertilizes. Suppresses Weeds. | When? - At planting or when needed. How? Spread 1" or more around plants as a topdressing. |
| Grass Clippings | Builds Tilth. Conserves water. Modulates soil temperature. | When? - At planting time or when grass clippings are available. How? - 1-4 inch around plantings or along rows. |
| Newspaper, Cardboard | Suppresses weeds. Retains moisture. | When? - Planting time. How? - lay down Newspaper or Cardboard. Hold it down with soil or stones. Cardboard is easier to work with if it's wet. Good to use under mulches. |
| Pine Needles | Builds Tilth. Suppresses weeds. | When? - At planting time and as needed. How? - Apply 2-4 inches layers. Needles tends to acidify soil. |
| Wood Chips | Builds Tilth. Suppresses weeds. Modulates soil temperature. | When? - At planting time and as needed. How? - Apply 3-4 inches around established plants. |
| Straw | Builds Tilth. Suppresses weeds. Cools soil and conserves water. | When? - At planting time or when straw is available. How? - Layer 8" of straw around plants. Mulch heavily between rows to suppress weeds. |
Inorganic Mulches:
Mulches: |
Benefits |
Apply - When & How |
|---|---|---|
| Gravel & Stones | Suppresses weeds. Modulates soil temperature. Retains moisture. | When? - At planting time and as needed. How? - I mulch heavy with gravel or stones. I use 3-4 inches - some places more. Good for mulching paths, trees and rock gardens. |