Mulch

What is mulch?

Mulch is a layer of carbon-rich organic matter spread on top of a garden to improve the soil, keep in moisture, and suppress weeds. Grass, leaves, or straw are typically used in annual gardens. Woodchips work well for perrenial gardens and orchards. 

What style does it fit?

Mulching is a very easy way to decompose leaves, grass, straw, or woodchips. It also lowers the overall maintenance needed in a garden. So it is a great fit for hands-off composters, as well as gardeners of all types.

What space does it need?

Mulch should be spread on a garden. 

Does it work all year?

Spreading mulch is only practical in the spring, summer, and fall. But the mulch will continue to shelter the soil and plants' roots during the winter.

How does it work?

Direct hot sun, hard rain, and strong wind can compact, erode, or leach nutrients out of soil. Mulch creates a barrier against these elements while keeping the soil more consistently damp and cool for plants' roots. It also suppresses weeds by excluding light and discouraging sprouts. Finally, mulch creates food and habitat for beneficial bugs and earthworms, while slowly breaking down into humus. 

For an annual garden - where soil is more likely to be stirred or tilled - stick to softer mulches like leaves, straw, or grass clippings. Fresh grass clippings should only be spread in thin layers to prevent matting, but dried out clippings, leaves, or straw can be spread several inches deep. Leave a little room clear around the stems of smaller plants for airflow. Depending on how fast it breaks down, you may want to replenish the mulch layer every few weeks.

In perrenial gardens or orchards, woodchips are a great long-lasting mulch. Spread the woodchips evenly several inches deep. You can also heap mulch over perrenial plants in the late fall to shelter them from sharp temperature shifts over the winter.

***
Got more composting questions? Email the Compost Hotline at [email protected].