Last summer I spent a month traveling and volunteering in a farm, helping with daily duties in the garden. Even the owner had big plans for me and the rest of the volunteers, unfortunately we spent most of the working time pulling out weeds; then, after two weeks, the areas that were already done, had new weeds coming. Was it really worth it to have this bunch of international volunteers with lots of potential, just using their strong hands in pulling weeds? After brainstorming, the experience obtained from previous projects took us to the almost obvious and easiest solution: Mulching!
Mulching is a beneficial gardening practice that involves covering the soil surface around plants with a layer of organic or inorganic material. It offers various advantages, such as weed suppression, moisture retention, temperature moderation, and soil improvement.
After gathering all volunteers’ ideas, we all came up with this simple guide to get the best from this technique:
- Select the Mulch: Choose an appropriate mulching material based on your garden’s needs and preferences. Common organic mulches include straw, wood chips, shredded leaves, grass clippings, and compost. Inorganic mulches like gravel, stones, or black plastic sheeting can also be used for specific purposes.
- Prepare the Garden Bed: Before applying mulch, clear the area of weeds and grass. It’s best to pull out weeds manually or use a garden hoe or weed killer, depending on your preferred approach. Ensure the soil is well-watered and free from any debris.
- Apply a Layer of Mulch: Spread a layer of mulch around your plants, ensuring the soil surface is covered uniformly. The mulch should be around 2-4 inches thick. Avoid piling mulch against the plant stems to prevent moisture-related issues and potential rotting.
- Mulch Around Trees and Shrubs: Extend the mulch layer in a wider circle around trees and shrubs to create a “mulch ring.” This area should ideally span at least 2-3 feet from the base of the plant. Leave a small gap around the trunk to prevent moisture buildup and potential decay.
- Replenish Mulch Regularly: Organic mulches tend to break down over time, so it’s necessary to replenish them periodically. Add a fresh layer of mulch as needed, usually once or twice a year. Before adding more mulch, remove any existing debris or compacted mulch to allow proper airflow and prevent fungal diseases.
- Water the Garden: After applying mulch, water the garden thoroughly. Mulch helps retain moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering. However, it’s still important to water the plants adequately, especially during dry spells.
By following these steps, you can effectively utilize mulching in your garden to improve plant health, conserve water, and enhance the overall appearance of your garden beds, which will bring you to a transformation of your garden into a self-maintaining space.