Mulching is a great way to improve soil fertility. Typically, mulching refers to spreading certain organic materials in your garden to enhance the quality of the soil. Gardeners need to use organic mulch from time.
This is because organic mulch tends to decompose over time. Usually, mulch can last up to six years. But you have to replace it every one to two years. The lifespan of the mulch varies based on various factors.
Some of these factors include the climatic conditions of the area and the type of mulch.
The frequency of mulching
Generally, in most gardens, you need to apply approximately two to three inches of mulch. However, note that mulch is susceptible to running off due to harsh external conditions.
For example, if your region experiences too much rain, there is a high probability that mulch will runoff. So, you have to keep monitoring the mulch to ensure it stays in place at all times.
You can keep on adding more mulch, depending on how it runs off from the garden.
Does the mulch color determine the frequency of mulching?
After some time, mulch tends to change color. In particular, undyed mulch starts becoming gray after one year. Gray mulch still works well for the soil.
However, most gardeners prefer replacing it to boost the aesthetics in the garden. On the flip side, dyed mulch retains its original color for more extended periods.
Nonetheless, synthetically dyed mulch is not safe for growing garden plants. This is because the artificial dye can penetrate the soil and damage the plants.
If you are using dyed mulch, it would be best to replace it annually. Moreover, it is essential to understand all the ingredients used to make the mulch. This way, you’ll know how it will affect the soil.
The type of mulch
The mulch size will also determine how often you should mulch. Typically, shredded mulch runs off with rainwater. Bark mulch, on the other hand, lasts longer. So, if you are using shredded mulch, you’ll have to replace it often.
What happens if you don’t replace old mulch?
Over time, mulch breaks down into the soil completely. In turn, it no longer offers any benefits to the soil. Mulch generally protects the soil and improves the water retention properties of the soil.
Failure to replace old mulch leads to soil erosion and weed infestation. Also, mulch ruins the aesthetics of your garden if you don’t replace it. Remember, mulch turns color or fades after several years. So, consider replacing it.
There are two ways of solving this, adding new mulch or planting ground cover plants.
Mulch Maintenance
If you want to boost the longevity of your mulch, you have to take good care of it. Undyed bark mulch requires low maintenance; so, consider using it. However, note that it will take longer to decompose into the soil than other mulch options.
It would be best to keep monitoring the mulch if you want the best results. Ensure the mulch is two to three inches thick at all times. If not, add more mulch material. Also, be careful not to pile up the mulch on plants.
The mulch layer should not be too thick. Otherwise, it will prevent proper aeration in the soil and attract bugs and rodents such as gophers, rats, mice and the likes.
The answer…
At the end of the day, the frequency of maintaining your mulch depends on various factors. But one thing for sure is that you should keep monitoring the mulch from time to time.
Ensure that the mulch stays two to three inches thick. Also, consider replacing it once it starts changing color. When appropriately maintained, mulch can last up to six years. But you may have to replace it after every one to two years.
How to use mulch in your garden
When applying mulch, avoid making common mistakes. Otherwise, the soil won’t receive the benefits offered by the mulch. Below, we discuss some of the ways you can use mulch in your garden.
Use mulch as an accent:
Did you know you can use mulch to improve the aesthetics of your property? Colored mulch can make the garden look more appealing and still help you create a healthy lawn.
The color of your mulch should generally complement your outdoor space. Consider using dark-colored mulch, especially if you have flowers in your garden. The color contrast helps you make the garden look more inviting.
On the other hand, brown mulch often complements brick houses. If you are not sure of the color to choose, consult a gardening professional.
Clean out old mulch:
If you are replacing the old mulch, get rid of the old mulch. Old mulch may no longer be beneficial to the garden. It is therefore beneficial to remove it before adding new mulch. Doing this also helps you improve the aesthetics of your garden.
Do not compromise on the thickness:
Generally, mulch should be two to three inches thick. However, this depends on the situation. For example, if you are spreading mulch next to a tree or paver, you don’t need to apply too much mulch.
You will need to thin out the mulch. Also, the type of plants you are growing will determine the thickness of the mulch you should apply.
Try out different mulch types:
Be open-minded to try out different types of mulch. You can create mulch from a wide range of materials. So, consider trying different mulch types like pine straw and shredded hardwood bark. Other options include cocoa bean shells and nut hulls.
Don’t ignore bare soil:
Always mulch all bare spots in the garden. Bare soil tends to run off and leave your garden looking unhealthy. Luckily, mulching prevents soil runoff. In turn, mulching prevents environmental degradation.
Don’t use excess or too little mulch:
As mentioned earlier, you should not apply too much mulch. Otherwise, the soil won’t receive proper aeration. The standard rule is to apply two to three inches of mulch annually. Also, avoid using too little mulch.
A thin layer of mulch does not provide adequate nutrients to the plants. Using the right amount of mulch helps you prevent soil erosion and boost excellent water retention properties in the soil.
In turn, this will reduce the need to irrigate the soil. Note that if you use pea gravel as your mulch, you would only have to use two inches. Also, if your garden is too small, you will only have to use two inches of mulch.
Don’t forget your trees:
Never forget mulching your trees. Mulch is essential for safeguarding the tree trunk. If you have young trees, apply the mulch around the base. Using mulch on your young trees protects them from diseases and other threats.
Don’t add a cover material for the mulch:
Contrary to popular belief, adding a cover material under the mulch leads to more water runoff. Also, it keeps your garden neater. If you want your mulch to decompose faster, it would be best to be in direct contact with the soil.
Don’t use bad mulch:
Always use the right mulch for your crops. The biggest mistake you can make is using the wrong mulch. Always purchase mulch from a reputable garden store. Otherwise, it won’t deliver the expected results.
Also, mulch can be expensive. So, ensure you purchase quality mulch. Check all the ingredients used to make the mulch before applying it to your plants.
When to add mulch
More often than not, the frequency of mulching depends on a wide range of factors. Some of them include the mulch type, garden size, and plant type. If you apply mulch in your garden, it is essential to monitor it from time to time.
If you notice anything unusual with the mulch, replace it immediately. For example, if the mulch changes color, replace it. Also, if the layer of the mulch appears thinner, add other materials on top of the mulch.