What are the advantages of mulching?
Mulch is any organic substance used to cover the soil in planting beds. Proper mulching helps maintain soil moisture, control weeds and insulate the soil, A layer of mulch can even inhibit certain plant diseases. Additionally, mulch helps keep your garden looking neat and attractive.
What types of mulch are used?
Mulches include wood chips, pine needles, bark, cocoa hulls, leaves, compost and other products derived from plants. Hardwood shredded mulch is frequently used in this area. The shape of this mulch has a clinging effect that helps to keep it in place. Shredded Cypress and Cedar are also available. Bark chips are cookie-shaped chunks of bark with a coarse texture. A product called Enviromulch is made from old wood palates that were shredded and then dyed different colors - from earth tones to very bright shades. Wood chips are a byproduct of damaged or dead tree limbs that are run through a chipper and are sometimes available for free through your community.
Cocoa bean hulls, pine straw, leaf mold, and mushroom compost are good choices for perennial gardens. They do tend to decompose quickly, though, and need to be replenished more often then other types.
Although some inorganic products like stone, lava rock and pulverized rubber may be promoted as "mulch", they do not offer the same moisture-retention qualities as true mulch and may even create an environment that is to harsh for some plants. However, these products also so not decompose and, therefore, do not need to be replenished often. They serve mainly as decoration and weed barrier.
How deep should a layer of mulch be?
Mulching depth is recommended at 2-4 inches. While deeper mulch can be effective in suppressing weeds and reducing maintenance, it often causes other problems, These include excess moisture, a change in soil pH, sour smells and a build up of toxic acids that can kill young plants. Additionally, thick blankets of fine mulch can become matted and may actually prevent the penetration of water and air and they can even act like potting soil and support weed growth.
How do I maintain my mulch?
Inspect the plants and soil in the area to make sure they are getting proper drainage. Check the depth of the mulch layer. If there is still 2-4 inches, do not add new mulch. Rake the existing layer to break up any matted pieces and refresh the appearance. If mulch is piled against tree trunks or plant stems, pull it back several inches so the base and the root crown are exposed.
What is the best way to estimate the amount of mulch I'll need?
To estimate the right amount of mulch for your planting beds, divide the square yardage of the area by ten. That will tell you how many cubic yards of material you will need. For example, if you have 150 square yards of beds, you will need approximately 15 cubic yards or mulch.
