1. Controls Weeds

Through the use of mulch, you can limit the number of weeds that spring up in the open spaces of your garden. The mulch acts as a barrier, limiting the amount of sunlight to find its way to the weeds.

2. Retains Moisture

Organic mulches absorb water. Organic and non-organic varieties both cover the soil and limit evaporation. Retaining moisture, especially during hot, dry seasons, can not only help out your plants but can also help out your water bill.

3. Prevents Soil Erosion

Mulching not only keeps existing water trapped in the soil it also keeps rainwater from washing away your soil. It does this by breaking the fall of the water and therefore lessening the force when the water impacts the ground.

4. Maintains Soil Nutrients

Not only does mulch keep soil nutrients from being washed away with the rain, but it also can release nutrients into the soil if you are using an organic material. This happens as the organic material slowly decomposes on top of the soil.

5. Controls Pests

Using certain types of mulch, such as cedar bark, can deter certain pests since the cedar bark has natural oils that act as insect repellants. To reap the full benefits, be sure to find a very fragrant mulch, as it will have the greatest effect on insects. But be warned, some mulches can encourage insects to flock to your garden and sometimes your house, so be sure to research which type of mulch will best suit your needs.

TIP from the pros: Our Field Operations Manager, Carlos Salinas, suggests, “When adding mulch to your garden beds, avoid piling mulch up against the trunk or stems of plants. This can lead to insect and disease issues. Using too deep a layer of mulch can also be a problem — generally, 2 to 3 inches of mulch is recommended for most plants.”

6. Encourages Earthworms to Move-In

Using organic material for mulching can encourage earthworms to occupy your garden soil. And as any good gardener will tell you, earthworms help improve soil structure and nutrient cycling.

7. Spruce up the garden

Mulch can give a garden a finished look by filling in the empty spaces while being one of the easiest fillers to maintain. Grass, groundcovers, and other fillers may take extensive care, such as mowing and watering, as well as competing for resources with your garden plants. Mulch is easy to care for and never competes with your other plants.

TIP: Carlos adds, “Mulching around trees not only promotes a healthy growing environment, but it also helps to keep maintenance equipment such as weed eater far from the trunk of the tree.”