Mulching Do’s and Don’ts

Adding mulch to soil beds in fall can provide several benefits for plants through the winter including weed prevention, moisture retention, and extreme temperature change buffering. However, improper mulching can cancel out these benefits or cause you some new troubles. Here are some tips to get it just right:

DO pull weeds before mulching! Otherwise they’ll absorb those added nutrients and grow stronger. A mulch layer will help prevent new weeds.

DON’T use dyed mulches or low-grade mulches blended with synthetics! These contain chemicals that leech into soils and kill essential microbiology.

DO assess old mulch before adding more! Has last year’s decomposing mulch broken down enough to add new material yet? Skip any areas that don’t need a refresh.

DON’T pile mulch high, especially around the base of trees and shrubs! Mulch volcanoes ensure a slow death for your plants. Moisture and airflow is restricted causing weak, girdling roots and inviting fungal disease.

As always- sourcing organic materials will benefit you greatly in the long run. Sustainability matters!