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Mulching is a simple way to benefit garden plants and reduce weeding and watering, but you want to choose the right mulch and apply it at the right time. Before applying mulch to a garden bed, ask yourself the following questions:
What do I hope to achieve by mulching?
Weed control, moisture retention, temperature moderation, soil improvement or beautification? For weed control and moisture retention, wait until the soil is at least 60 degrees in spring and plants are starting to sprout. Then apply a thick layer of organic mulch such as partially decomposed leaves, grass clippings or finished compost.
How large is the area to be mulched and how much mulch will I need to cover the area?
Mulch is measured in cubic feet. For example, if you have an area that is 10-by-10-feet and you wish to apply three inches of mulch, you would need 25 cubic feet of mulch.
Which mulch material should I use?
Lawn clippings work well in vegetable gardens. Layered newspaper works well to control weeds. Compost improves soil structure and provides an excellent source of plant nutrients. Bark chips and composted bark mulch, available at garden centers, makes an attractive finish to garden beds and will eventually improve the condition of the soil. Pine needles increase the acidity of soil, so they work best around acid-loving plants such as rhododendrons and blueberries.
