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Mulch can be a positive addition to any garden.

Also, mulch visually defines the space and gives a nice neat look to your flower beds.

Adding mulch isn’t as easy as randomly throwing some handfuls.

how to mulch

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Mulching in spring helps flower beds look vibrant and deters weed growth.

For lawns,mulching grass with a lawn moweris a good strategy.

Mulching in Summer

Some gardeners like to freshen up their mulch in summer, for various reasons.

There might be more weed growth than expected due to heavy rain.

Some mulches might fade and adding a new layer can refresh the color.

Also, in times of drought, a bit of extra mulch can help retain more moisture after watering.

Mulch can provide protection from winter cold and dryness.

you’re able to also use fallen leaves for an effective winter mulch.

Mulching in Winter

Winter is a bit late for mulching in most areas.

Mulching in winter can also help protect your spring bulbs fromsquirrelswho might dig them up.

Check with your localCooperative Extensionfor advice on how to deal with jumping worms in your garden.

When Not to Mulch

Don’t mulch just before major rainfall is expected.

You also shouldn’t mulch right before a very windy day.

It’s best not to mulch just before aheavy rainstorm.

In most colder zones this means before mid November.

Problems with Over-Mulching Trees and Shrubs.

New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, Rutgers University.

To Mulch or Not to Mulch.

Kent State Research and Extension.

Avoid the Temptation to Apply Mulch Too Early.

College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Ohio State University Extension.

Why Do We Want To Mulch?.Virginia Cooperative Extension.

Mulch: The Basis of Any Good Garden.

Why You Should Leave the Leaves and Give Yourself a Break from Yard Work.

Tufts Pollinator Initiative, Tufts University.

University of Minnesota Extension Office