Mulching 101
After the long winter, your lawn and garden may need some TLC before the temperatures really start rising. That’s where mulching comes in handy – lawn and garden mulching makes your yard look great and helps it withstand the summer heat.
The Benefits of Mulching
- Conserves water
- Protects roots from extreme temperatures
- Discourages weed growth
Lawn Mulching
A mulching mower is your lawn’s best friend. Lawn mower mulching double-cuts the grass clippings fine enough to disappear right into the lawn. Those clippings help conserve moisture and protect your lawn from high heat in summer – just be sure to remove weeds before mowing and mulching and you’ll maintain a healthy lawn.
Need a mulching mower? You’ll find a range options here.
Garden Mulching
If you prefer using store bought mulch for your garden, one of the most important tips to remember when hand mulching is to be generous with the amount of mulch you use. To retain moisture, as well as restrict weed growth, aim for at least 2 to 4 inches in depth. Avoid mulching directly against plant stems and tree trunks, which can suffocate the plant. Leave a 4 to 6 inch mulch-free diameter around the plant to prevent moisture-depletion and waterlogging problems. And use a rake to spread the mulch out evenly. Want to plant something new? Just remove the mulch from the area, plant and recover. Decorative mulch can also add color and texture to your garden bed.