Mulching is important. Proper mulching can help fight weeds and reduce soil erosion. Mulching is also important for the health of many plants. Mulch helps preserve soil moisture, keeps plant cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and can even lead to better aerated soil.
However, if laid incorrectly mulch can damage your plants. Here’s are three tips to correctly use mulch:
- Use the right amount. Different plants need different conditions to thrive. Often three inches is required for best results, but this entirely depends on your plants. New beds should have between two and four inches of mulch. However, perennials often only need one or two inches, while most annuals do best with around one inch.
- Avoid mulch build-ups. Too much mulch at the base of plants may cause bark decay. It’s important to not use so much mulch that your plants rot. Build-ups can also accidentally create homes for rodents, snakes, and other pests. It’s very important to make sure you don’t over mulch your area.
- Consider mulch additives. During the spring and fall months, it might be a good idea to add a pre-emergence herbicide to your mulch. This step can help reduce summer and winter weeds from overtaking your beds.
As you can see, there are a lot of important things to consider when mulching. Knowing how to use mulch (and getting it right the first time) is imperative for the health of your plants. If you want help keeping your Atlanta residential or commercial lawn healthy and looking great all year, then contact us today at 770-923-0387.
