How to Mulch
If that corner garden has become an unsightly jungle, this guide will help control those weeds while protecting your plants from the summer heat.
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You Will Need
- Grass clippings
- Dead leaves
- Bark chips
- Compost
- Inorganic mulch
- Fertilizer
- Manure
- Wire tomato baskets
Steps
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Step 1
Choose mulch type
Choose either organic mulch that will provide your garden with nutrients or inorganic mulch that can withstand the elements and not decompose.
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Step 2
Collect organic mulches at home
Collect organic mulches around your yard such as grass clippings, dead leaves, bark chips, and composted fruits and vegetables from the kitchen.
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Start a compost pile to provide your garden or flower beds with an endless supply of minerals and nutrients.
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Step 3
Purchase inorganic mulch
Purchase inorganic mulch such as crushed stone, plastic chips, and glass beads from home and garden centers.
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Inorganic mulches are best in high traffic or heavily-used areas such as playgrounds or hiking paths.
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Step 4
Time your application
Mulch after the ground has warmed as covering the soil too early could trap cold, moist air; it can also stunt plant growth and allow diseases to flourish.
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Step 5
Weed and aerate soil
Weed and aerate the soil before applying your mulch. Mix in any fertilizer or manure at this time.
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Step 6
Protect small plants
Protect small plants and seedlings using wire tomato baskets and keep 1 inch of open soil around the plant.
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Step 7
Apply correct amount
Apply 2 to 4 inches of bark, wood chips, and grass clippings. Apply 3 to 4 inches of leaves and compost. Reinforce over the season and enjoy the favor you're doing your garden.
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According to the Environmental Protection Agency, yard debris and leftover food scraps make up 26 percent of the solid waste in U.S. landfills.
