Here is an overview of different mulchesin your vegetable garden.
Organic mulches are generally best forvegetable gardens, but inorganic sources have their benefits, too.
Avoid Mold-Producing Mulches
Some organic mulches tend to encourage mold than others.
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Mold can rot root systems, so you want to discourage mold growth whenever possible.
This information also helps youcalculate appropriatelyhow much mulch you’re gonna wanna buy.
is best used aroundperennial cropssuch as berry bushes, fruit trees, rhubarb, and herbs.
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Wood mulch also works greatfor walkwaysin between vegetable garden beds, as it is long-lasting and decomposes slowly.
However, it maylower the pH of the soil.
It is made of woven polypropylene fabric anchored in the ground with landscape staples.
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It lets air and water through and retains soil moisture.
The product protects against UV deterioration and often comes with a 5-year guarantee.
It is best used for perennial crops such as berry bushes.
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The plastic can be secured with landscape pins or rocks or the edges or buried in the soil.
Place a soaker hose under the plastic before laying it so the water gets directly to the roots.
One of the best mulches for a vegetable garden is compost.
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It acts as a top dressing and immediately adds nutrients to the soil.
Be strategic about the color of your mulch based on your garden’s climate zone.
For example, use dark-colored mulch to warm up cool-climate soil.
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Lighter-colored mulches are best for reflecting sun away from the soil in warmer climates.
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