Should I mulch?

Should you add mulch to your landscape beds? Short answer, yes. Whether you are mulching an existing bed or making a new one, I always suggest mulch. Landscaping rock is another option, but it can be difficult to work with and fade over time.

Below are a few benefits of mulch.

• Mulch acts as an insulation. It helps keep the plants roots cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

• Mulch can help retain moisture. On those hot summer days the beds with mulch will hold moisture longer than non-mulched beds.

• A good organic mulch can break down and provide essential nutrients for the plants.

• Adding mulch around trees and other plants will protect them from mechanical damage from mowers and string trimmers.

• A fresh coat of mulch in the spring can add an excellent aesthetic touch. Though most won’t argue that mulch isn’t pretty, it helps the beauty of the different landscape plants stand out.