Does My Yard Need Mulch?
When mornings start with birds chirping, flowers breaking through the ground, and warm sunlight, it can only mean one thing – Spring has arrived! This is the time of year when you get to work outside and care for your lawn before the humid temperatures arrive in New Jersey. When it comes to lawn care, one thing all homeowners should remember is that your yard needs mulch. Mulch is extremely beneficial and should never be forgotten.
Why Your Yard Needs Mulch
Leaving soil exposed to the outside elements is a significant mistake. Investing in a few bags now will save you more in the long run.
- Controls soil erosion.
Wind and rain can take a toll on the ground causing it to move or shift. When soil erosion occurs, it depletes the topsoil in the lawn, garden, and flower beds. Topsoil is an essential layer of ground that holds necessary nutrients for plants and flowers to grow. Soil erosion near a home can also cause water to drain incorrectly and potentially damage the foundation of the house. - Prevents weeds from taking over.
Unlike flowers, grass, and plants, weeds have the magical ability to grow anywhere and in any weather scenario. It is important to remove all weeds before mulching. Mulch will help prevent weeds from taking over your backyard by keeping them from sprouting through the soil as quickly. - Helps manage soil temperatures.
Plants grow better when soil when remains a constant temperature instead of fluctuating throughout the spring and summer season. Mulch is the best way to manage temperatures, so plants don’t experience unnecessary stress from weather changes. - Minimizes watering needs.
One of the last benefits of mulching is that is locks in moisture in a good way and decreases the amount of time you have to water the yard.
Places to Spread Mulch
Your yard needs mulch in a few different areas to reap the benefits listed above and save you time and stress over the summer.
- In flower beds.
Flower beds are the most popular places to spread mulch. Apply between two to three inches of mulch to protect plant roots and soil. This will help flowers or shrubs to grow and establish strong roots. - Around trees.
Trees are another great place to spread mulch. Apply mulch around the trunk and as far out as the branches spread. Be careful to not pile mulch against the trunk which can trap moisture and cause it to rot. - Next to walkways or driveways.
Lining walkways and driveways with mulch is a great accent to the landscape. It also helps keep weeds and grass from taking over and breaking the concrete or pavement. - Under swing sets or play areas.
Spreading mulch around children’s play areas helps keep weeds from sprouting. These are also high-traffic areas, and since not all grass can withstand heavy foot traffic, mulch is a great alternative.
Is this the year to make your lawn one to be proud of? Perennial Lawn Care can help with customized lawn care programs. Contact our office today to learn more!
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