Mulch is an important part of any well-kept landscape, but it can be hard to know what kind to buy. So in this article, we'll cover the basics of mulching and give you some tips for selecting the perfect type for your yard.
Mulching is the act of placing a layer of material on the surface of the soil to suppress weed growth, conserve soil moisture, and, in some cases, improve the overall appearance of your garden. Mulches come in many forms, either organic or inorganic.
Before getting started, let's take a look at some of the reasons you might consider using
mulch in your landscape:
1. Mulches and Weed Control
Mulches can be used to suppress weed growth. When applied properly, proper mulches block sunlight from reaching the soil surface, therefore inhibiting weed growth.
2. Mulches and Water Conservation
Placing a layer of mulch over your soil can also help reduce water evaporation in garden beds. This is because mulch acts as a barrier, preventing the sun from evaporating water that's close to the soil surface.
3. Mulches and Soil pH
Some mulch types can also help increase the soil pH in your garden beds. Try using pine needles to achieve a more acidic landscape, or opt for cocoa shells or coffee grounds to increase the alkalinity of your soil.
Now that you know a bit about how and why to use mulch, let's take a look at the most popular types that you can find at garden centers:
The typical homeowner devotes around 70 hours a year to maintaining their lawn and garden, and proper mulching is a key component to keeping your yard healthy (per Ditech). That being said, it's a good idea to take a few minutes to learn about the different types of mulches available before making your decision.
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