Whether you are a DIY expert or landscaper – it is always good to stay on top of your game! Following a visit from our local appliance repair provider, Active Appliance Repairs, I decided that a good topic for today’s blog was tips on mulching! Read on to find out more.
A mulch is a layer of bulky organic material placed on the soil surface around the stems. It is generally not used for annual but around perennials it provides five positive benefits to landscape gardeners:
- The soil is kept moist during the dry days of summer
- Annual weeds are kept in check.
- Soil structure is improved by the addition of humus.
- Plant foods are provided by some mulching materials.
- Frost penetration into the soil in winter is reduced.
Suitable materials for mulching are moist peat, well-rotted manure, leaf mould, properly made garden compost and shredded bark. Grass clippings are often recommended and used but word of caution for landscapers is needed. Add a thin layer at a time and stir occasionally – do not use them if they are weedy or if the lawn has been treated with a weedkiller.
The standard time for mulching is May. Success depends on preparing the soil surface properly before adding the organic blanket. Landscape gardeners should remove debris, dead leaves and weeds and then water the surface if it’s dry. Apply a spring feed if this has not been done, hoe in lightly and you are now ready to apply the mulch. Spread a 2-3 inch layer around but not touching the stems.
Bearing in mind the value of mulching for landscapers and gardeners in Ireland, it is surprising that its not more common. The ancient Romans regularly mulched around their plants with stones to keep the surface cool, moist and weed free.