Mulching

What do you need to know about mulching your landscape? Though mulching is not rocket science, there are a few things to know in order to achieve the look you want, and maximize its benefits for your landscape.

To begin with, mulches are broadly categorized into two groups: organic and inorganic

Organic mulch is made from natural substances such as leaves, bark, wood chips, grass clippings, and straw. Organic mulch gradually breaks down and needs to be replaced, which actually provides its own benefit to your plants.

Inorganic mulch is derived from nonliving materials such as stones, rocks, and plastic. It does not undergo decomposition, and its longevity surpasses that of organic mulch, though it can be harder to maintain. It can be an effective option for regions experiencing intense winds or rainfall, as it is less likely to get washed away quickly. Examples of inorganic mulch include river rock, pea gravel, and shredded rubber.

Following are some of the benefits to mulching with organic mulch:

  • Moisture Retention – Mulch forms a protective covering over the soil, which reduces evaporation from the soil’s surface. This helps to keep the soil moist and hydrated, ensuring that plant roots have a more consistent supply of water. When mulch is put down and edged properly it also helps prevent water runoff, further keeping the water near your plants where it is needed.
  • Erosion Control – Mulch helps to protect the soil surface from wind and water erosion. Improving soil retention means that plant roots are not exposed to the elements, which is crucial since roots are designed to be in the ground. It also means that the crisp lines of your landscape are not ruined by soil migrating into the lawn or onto the driveway.
  • Weed Suppression – Endless weed pulling all season can be an overwhelming task. Mulch can suppress weed sprouting by keeping sunlight from reaching the soil and weed seeds. This keeps your landscape looking its best with a much less effort. Another benefit is that when weeds cannot grow, they do not compete with your plants for nutrients and sunlight.
  • Temperature Regulation – Mulch acts as a natural insulator, helping to regulate soil temperature by keeping it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This cushions your plants from extreme temperatures, extending their growing season.
  • Soil Enrichment – Organic mulches gradually break down over time, releasing back into the soil nutrients that are essential for plant health. This organic matter also becomes food for earthworms and microbes, which also provide beneficial nutrients to your plants. Finally, this decomposing organic matter, as it is mixed into the surrounding soil by bugs, worms, and animals, creates pathways for water and air to circulate bring the nutrients to the plant roots.
  • Enhance curb appeal – Mulch gives garden beds and borders a neat and polished appearance. It also helps to create contrast and distinction between garden beds and paths. It also comes in a variety of colors, allowing the property owner to individualize their overall aesthetic.

Finally, be aware that there are some ‘Do Nots’ when it comes to mulching.

Sadly, many landscapes are dotted with trees that have 6  of mulch, or  volcanoes , piled around the base of the trees. This can create multiple problems. Voles like to make their home in thick mulch. Then they begin gnawing on the bark of the tree, which can kill the tree.

Also, when mulch is against the bark of the tree moisture is retained. For roots this a benefit, but bark is not meant to stay moist, and eventually it starts to rot, which in time will kill the tree. When mulching around trees make sure you can still see the flare of the trunk, and the mulch is never more than 3″ deep.

Get The Perfect Look For Your Garden With Well Rooted
Gardens’ Softscape Services!

Applying mulch is an effective way to promote plant health and keep your property looking beautiful year-round. Well Rooted Gardens is ready to be your partner in this process! Our expertise and customer-oriented services will ensure that your landscape looks its best.

Call us at 402-800-7389 for a consultation!

We serve the communities of Omaha, Elkhorn, Gretna, Bennington,
Valley, Blair, Fort Calhoun, Ralston, La Vista, Papillion, and Bellevue.

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Mulching

Every lawn & landscape company applies mulch in the spring, but few perform the task right. Mulching is the process of applying organic matter to trees or landscapes with a purpose or goal in mind. Sadly too many landscapes are coated with 6” of mulch or “Volcanoes” where tree rings are piled so deep in mulch, that Voles make their home in the mulch and kill the trees. What are the goals in mulching?

• Moisture retention
• Erosion control
• Weed suppression
• Insulation of plant material in winter
• Cooling of roots during summer

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