You may have heard about the numerous benefits of ‘mulching’ your garden, but might be wondering what is mulch and why is it important? 

Mulching your garden refers to adding a thick layer of organic matter to the surface of the soil. This process helps to retain moisture in the soil, suppress weeds, improve soil organic matter, deter pests and protect plants from extreme temperatures.

Here are some top tips for mulching your garden this spring.

Prepare for success: When applying mulch, you should prepare the soil beforehand. This will save you both time and effort in the long run. Make sure to pull up any weeds and rake the surface to ensure the mulch spreads evenly

Mulch trees and shrubs properly: Mulch can touch annual plants (like vegetables) and herbaceous perennials (flowers etc) but when you’re mulching close to trees and shrubs make sure not to pile mulch too closely to the bark as this may encourage pests and diseases.

Not too thick, not too thin:It is important that mulch is spread evenly but there’s no need to use excessive quantities. Mulch should be about two to three inches thick to allow for even coverage and to avoid harbouring pests or weeds.  

Make mulching a habit: Mulching should be done at least twice a year, in early spring and late autumn. However, you may want to top up throughout the year as the mulch rots down into the earth. 

Just add water: One of mulch’s key benefits is its ability to conserve moisture in the soil. In warmer months take time to give the area a deep watering before laying down any mulch to avail of this benefit.

Mulching your soil enriches the fungal and bacterial life in your soil. The compost will introduce millions of living organisms into the soil which play a vital role in maintaining soil fertility. This is a natural organic process by which you are improving your soil’s health.

The addition of compost as a mulch also adds nutrients slowly to the soil. The main nutrients Nitrogen, Potassium and Phosphorus are released into the soil along with many just as important micronutrients.

Mulching with Organic 100% Peat Free New Leaf Compost is the ideal method to ensure healthy soils and plants in your garden