Using organic mulch in your garden is one of the best, easiest and budget-friendly things you can do to care for your plants and trees. However, not all mulch is created equally and there are some definite do’s and don’ts when it comes to using mulch. Here we answer some of the most common questions about how to effectively use mulch for optimum results.
What exactly is ‘mulching’?
Mulching is basically applying a layer of material around your plants and trees to cover the surface of the soil.
Are there different types of mulch?
There’s a large number of options available when it comes to mulch. Mulching products fall into two broad categories: inorganic and organic.
Some examples of organic mulch include – woodchips, grass clippings, leaves, straw, bark or sawdust. Examples of inorganic mulch would be anything artificial such as: gravel, pebbles, weed mat, fabrics and newspaper.
Both types are used for different reasons and both will discourage the growth of weeds, however inorganic mulch obviously can’t break down and help improve the soil quality like organic mulches can. Choose mulch based on what you need it to do and the look you’re going for.
Are There Different Types Of Mulch?
There’s a large number of options available when it comes to mulch. Mulching products fall into two broad categories: inorganic and organic.
Some examples of organic mulch include – woodchips, grass clippings, leaves, straw, bark or sawdust. Examples of inorganic mulch would be anything artificial such as: gravel, pebbles, weed mat, fabrics and newspaper.
Both types are used for different reasons and both will discourage the growth of weeds, however inorganic mulch obviously can’t break down and help improve the soil quality like organic mulches can. Choose mulch based on what you need it to do and the look you’re going for.
Whart Are The Benefits Of Using Mulch
So what are the main reasons to mulch? There are so many! When applied correctly, gardens that have been mulched generally have less weeds, are more drought-resistant, are better able to resist pests, require less watering and are generally healthier. Mulch helps to regulate the temperature of the soil, adds to the nutritional content and looks and, (depending on the type of mulch used) smells fantastic. Convinced? You should be!
How Do I Mulch Effectively?
Using mulch is fantastic for your garden – when done correctly. Here are our top tips for effective mulching.
- Choose the right type of mulch for your plants or trees. If you’re unsure, ask your local Arborist or nursery for advice.
- Remove any weeds before you apply.
- Don’t overdo it! One of the biggest mistakes people make when mulching is applying far too much, which can actually be detrimental to the health of the plant or tree. Generally speaking, a layer of 5 – 10 centimetres is enough to impede sunlight penetration without harbouring pests.
- Do not pile the mulch right up against the trunk of your tree or the stems of plants. This can suffocate the plant and cause disease and pest infestation. Be sure to leave some space for the plant to breathe.
- Try to refresh organic mulch at least once a year. You’ll get the best results if you dig the old mulch into the soil to completely decompose before applying the new layer.
- By using different types of organic mulch you give a variety of different nutrients to the soil, so mix it up where possible (always with the needs of your particular plants and trees in mind).
Call The Mulching Experts
Aussie Tree Solutions are your local, fully qualified team of Brisbane Arborists. We have been providing expert tree services such as tree pruning and tree removals to South-East Queensland businesses and residents for over 40 years. And here at Aussie Tree Solutions – we love mulch! We are proud to provide high-quality, fresh forest organic mulch, perfect for a beautiful, thriving garden, direct to your door.
Call us now on (07) 3351 1722 for an obligation-free quote or to find out more about our mulching services.