October is typically when most people put down a fresh layer of mulch in their landscape beds. Where should you add mulch? How much mulch do you need? We've got some helpful tips that we'll be sending you over the next few weeks that will help you freshen up your yard just in time for the Holiday Season. A mulch layer around trees, shrubs, and planted beds provides many benefits. In areas that are difficult to mow, irrigate, or otherwise maintain, use mulch to replace turf or groundcovers. Also consider placing mulch in shady areas where many plants don’t grow well.
We wanted to give you some quick guidelines for using mulch effectively in your landscape beds. Maintain a 2- to 3-inch layer around established trees, shrubs, and bedding plants. Coarse materials, such as pine nuggets, may be applied to a depth of 4 inches, but don’t allow mulch to accumulate to a greater depth. Adding more mulch can harm plants because mulch intercepts rain and irrigation meant for plants’ root systems. Mulch compacts after it's installed so make sure you install enough to maintain that recommended 2 to 3 inch protection for your landscape plants. Initially it will seem like it's closer to 4" or 5" but that will compress over the first few weeks after installation.
Be sure to avoid “volcano mulching.” When mulch is piled against the base of a tree, it holds moisture, encouraging rot in the trunk. Mulch piled against the trunks of young trees may also create habitat for rodents that chew the tender bark and can ultimately kill the trees.
Make sure that you mulch to the drip line or beyond. Remember that in a forest environment, a tree’s entire root system (which usually extends well beyond the drip line) would be naturally mulched.
Don't forget to rake old mulch prior to adding new mulch. Some mulches can become matted, preventing water and air from seeping through. Rake it to benefit plantings and refresh the mulch’s appearance.
Are you going to DIY your mulch project? Look for some really great sales on bagged mulch at the big box stores. If you'd like to take back your weekend, let us do it for you! We offer professional, detailed service and we offer a wide variety of mulch types! Give us a call today or click here to fill out our mulch request form.
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