Well-tended landscapes require proper and careful mulching. Mulch acts as a protective barrier around plants and bare soil.
This barrier can consist of a variety of decomposing organic materials, including wood chips, pine needles, and straw or non-organic materials like river rock, recycled tires, and pebbles.
Mulching, however, does not just increase the visual appeal of your yard.
9 Best Benefits Mulching Can Offer Your Garden.
Mulch Controls Weeds
Because mulch acts as a barrier, it blocks sunlight from reaching weeds and weed seeds. Most weed seeds require sunlight to germinate. Eliminating weeds reduces your plants’ competition for water and nutrients.
Adds Protection From Lawnmowers
Mulch adds protection from lawn maintenance equipment while creating an aesthetically pleasing landscape. Mowers and string trimmers cause much damage to landscape plants.
Related Article: Mowing Alternatives: Why Is Mowing The Right Height And In Alternating Patterns Important?
Retains Moisture
Organic mulches absorb water. Both non-organic and organic mulches cover the soil and limit evaporation. Mulch’s ability to retain moisture during hot, dry seasons can not only save you expenses on your water bill but keep your plants from desiccating.
Moderates Soil Temperature
Mulch creates a blanket over the soil, moderating soil temperature extremes.
Related Article: Enhancing Your Soil
Prevents Soil Erosion
In addition to keeping rainwater in your soil, mulching also prevents rainwater from washing away your soil. Mulch can do this by lessening the impact rain makes when it touches the soil.
During heavy rains, mulch can help keep your garden from being destroyed.
Provides Soil Nutrients
Organic mulch can release nutrients into the soil as it slowly decomposes. In addition, as the mulch decomposes, it adds organic material to the soil, making nutrients readily available for your plants.
Controls Pests
Mulching your landscape can help keep pests under control. Mulch can significantly reduce thrips and leaf miners. Additionally, mulch can reduce foliar fungal pathogens by lessening soil splashing preventing fungal spores from reaching the leaves.
Consult the landscaping experts at Green Grounds Landscaping in Minnesota to determine which mulch may be best for your yard and any pests with which you have issues.
Related Article: How To Know If A Tree Is Dead And Needs To Be Removed
Encourages Earthworm Populations
Mulching with organic material encourages earthworms to move in and occupy your soil. Earthworms are beneficial to any garden as they help improve soil structure and nutrient cycling within the garden bed.
Gives Your Garden a Polished Look
Mulching your landscape can quickly improve the look of your garden by filling in empty spaces, while also being easy to maintain. Grass, groundcovers, and other fillers may require extensive care, such as mowing or watering, while they compete for resources with your plants.
Mulching your landscape this spring is an essential first step in establishing and protecting a beautiful home garden.
Green Grounds Landscaping Is Your Go-To Source In Landscape Healthcare
Green Grounds Landscaping, located in Minnesota, is a Lawn Care company that is a huge part of the community. From aquatic environments and snow management to deer and mole control, Green Grounds Landscaping has services tailored specifically for your lawn and landscape.
We offer services in Minnetonka, Eden Prairie, Edina, Delano, St. Louis park, Minneapolis, St. Paul State of Minnesota. For more information, contact us online, or call us at 612-408-4796. Be sure to follow us on Facebook!