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Spreading chopped up wood chips around your plants has become a pretty popular standard for many yards in many areas. But why do we do it and what is our reasoning behind which mulch we choose? It’s not just to keep up with the neighbors. And while most mulch is purchased in the spring, mulch is actually plentiful in year-round benefits.
- Protection from the sun and heat. Providing an extra barrier between the hot sun and those sensitive roots.
- Protection from the cold of winter. Just think of it as a little winter blanket of insulation for the roots of all your prized plants.
- Prevents weeds from popping up — the more obstacles you give the weeds, the less likely they are to come up.
- Helps hang on to some of that moisture, not only does mulch provide shade for the roots, it keeps the roots a little moister for a little longer.
- Organic mulches provide nutrients when they decompose. Some break down faster than others. Cedar is an example of a longer lasting mulch. Hardwood mulches have a shorter lifespan. There are benefits to both, one you will need to refresh more often, the other will last longer but will take longer to break down into nutrients.
- Helps prevent soil erosion and compaction around your plants.
- And yes, it does look pretty — it gives your yard that extra little something. Just watch for what it is made out of and be aware if it has cocoa mulch in it, as it can be alluring and toxic for dogs. Do not be afraid to ask the supplier about the source of the mulch and the components mixed in, such as dyes (natural or man made), pesticides, and other treatments. The type of tree that the mulch is made out of may serve to be beneficial as well, such as the smell of cedar mulch may keep the bugs away, and other natural mulches may attract bugs. Some mulches may wash away a little easier than others as well.
Ask your local garden nursery staff about what mulch is best for you. They can also help you estimate how much you will need. It is a good idea to take measurements with you when you go, and it may also be helpful to know the names of the plants in your yard. ‑AR; reprinted with permission from bestageeverblog.com