Taking pride in a property’s appearance and landscape takes dedication, time, and quality materials. Occasionally, mulch needs to be added when a homeowner has an exquisite garden, stately trees, or a manicured lawn. Putting down mulch helps lock in moisture, improve soil structure, and protect plants when winter’s frigid temperatures arrive.
However, there are so many options for mulch it may be challenging to select the ideal product for a yard. Depending on the style of garden or landscape, a homeowner may be more interested in using organic or inorganic mulch. It is essential to keep in mind that all types of mulch are not suitable for every use, as some materials may leech undesirable components into the ground and impact the soil and water quality.
What Makes a Good, Quality Mulch?
In most instances, an organic mulch composed of natural hardwoods, compost, leaf mold, or animal manure is ideal for feeding the soil. When seeking quality mulch near me, the product has to make a landscape more attractive, should be easy to apply, and not pollute. Using hardwood waste or wood chips as mulch is a welcome solution because of a few distinct qualities.
Compared to other forms of mulch, which require enough time to safely add to plants to prevent scorch, composted wood is versatile and beneficial. The dark color of a wood-based mulch provides a lovely contrast to brilliant green plants or flowers in various colors. Because wood mulch has a considerable bulk, it breaks down slowly, improving drainage and adding nutrients to the soil.
How and When to Use Mulch on Plants
For everything, there is a season, and mid to late spring is the usual time to add mulch to a garden or landscape. Timing is everything, whether a homeowner is applying a finely ground mulch or bulkier material. If mulch is added too early, before the soil warms up, it can slow down natural processes.
It is essential to add mulch to the landscape as a layer of insulation for plants during colder weather. Otherwise, using mulch reduces weeds in the garden, feeds the soil, and improves aeration and drainage. Beyond conditioning, the ground and giving plants a boost of nutrients, putting mulch down is suitable for shrubbery, trees, flowers, and the yard.
Keep in mind that some property owners prefer to add compost and other helpful elements to improve the soil during the spring months. However, mulch is still excellent for protecting plants during the winter. Applying a layer of mulch keeps the earth warm and leaves behind nutritious material to break down into the soil when spring returns.
Can Leftover Mulch Be Stored and Used Next Year?
Having too much of a good thing can be a challenge to manage, and if there is any leftover mulch, it can be used next year if stored correctly. It is critical to ensure that stored mulch has enough air circulation to prevent souring. Mulch has to be kept away from moisture and the sun to prevent mold and reduce decomposition.
