With the temperatures finally rising, it’s the perfect time to get out in the garden and work your green thumb’s magic! If you are a beginner, you might be a little confused when it comes to choosing and applying your mulch to flower beds. As a homeowner, mulching is one of the most straightforward and inexpensive things you can do to maintain your yard. Lassana’s Landscaping, Inc. has put together some helpful information to help you better understand mulch and how to use it.
Organic or Inorganic Mulch?
Both types of mulch have their own benefits and different areas in which they should be used. Organic mulch contains a variety of different colored shredded wood products. These products typically will differ in their consistency and quality. As organic mulch breaks down, it releases nutrients as it enhances your garden’s soil. When you add organic mulch to your flower beds, you’ll need to reapply it every year or two to maintain that polished look. Inorganic mulch contains mostly stone and recycled rubber products. Because there are so many different types of stone, you can choose from, this is a popular reason for homeowners to choose inorganic mulch. When used correctly, inorganic mulch can reduce issues with insects in or around your flower beds. However, keep in mind that using inorganic mulch can cause scorching on your plants because it radiates heat from the sun. To prevent scorching, choose the types of plants that are adapted to this or use organic mulch around the plant back and inorganic where there are no plants in your flower beds. While inorganic mulch is more expensive, it is no need to be replaced each year.
How Much Mulch Should I Use?
Whether you’re using organic or inorganic mulch, you’ll want to apply it at least 2-4 inches thick. Add one more inch to your final thickness as the mulch decomposes over time. To ensure you receive the benefits from mulch, it can’t be too thinly spread out.
Take a rough measurement of your flower beds to calculate exactly how many cubic yards of mulch you’ll need to buy. Then, multiply that number by how deep you’d like to lay your mulch. This amount, divided by 321, will equal the number of cubic yards you need to buy.
When and How Should I Apply Mulch?
One of the best times to apply mulch is before perennials have too much growth, usually in early spring. However, there really isn’t a time frame for when you can and cannot apply mulch. Make sure to pull all weed roots out before you apply your mulch to the beds.
All you’ll need is your mulch, garden gloves, a rake, and a scoop shovel to apply. Use either your rake or your hands to spread out the mulch evenly. As you make your way around your plants, be sure not to step on them or cause any damage from the rake. If you use mulch around your trees or shrubs, keep your organic mulch about 2-3 inches away from the base. To prevent insects from entering your building, apply many 6 inches away from the foundation.
Mulch is a great way to protect your plants, trees, and flowers and give your yard a beautiful and polished look!
Landscaping Design & Maintenance Services in Marblehead & Swampscott
If you want help spreading mulch in your yard, contact Lassana’s Landscaping today! Lassana’s Landscaping can be reached by calling 781-631-1938 or filling out our online contact form. See how mulch can transform your yard by viewing these before and after photos at this home in Marblehead, MA!
[bais_before_after before_image=”https://lassanas.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/mulch-before.jpg” after_image=”https://lassanas.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/mulch-after.jpg”]
