Southern California is breathing a sigh of relief after the recent tropical storm Hillary, which graced the region with record-breaking rain. While our gardens and plants bask in the newfound hydration, there’s a less welcome guest thriving in the moist environment – weeds.
However, before you find yourself knee-deep in unwanted plants, there’s a magic word to remember: Mulch.
The Power of Mulch
Whether your green space is limited to a few potted plants on a balcony, a quaint backyard garden, or a sprawling landscape, it’s high time you acquainted yourself with mulching. While traditionally, mulching is associated with fall and spring, the aftermath of the storm suggests an early start this season.
Why mulch? Mulch is like a protective shield for your garden. It not only conserves moisture, improves soil health, and maintains soil temperature but also prevents those pesky weeds from taking over your garden.
Choosing the Right Mulch for Your Garden
While there are myriad mulching materials available, organic mulches are my top pick. The list includes:
- Leaves
- Grass clippings
- Compost
- Wood chips
- Paper (Yes! Your Amazon shipping boxes can be repurposed)
If you’re looking to purchase bagged mulch, garden centers offer a plethora of options. Personally, I vouch for the Kellogg’s brand available at Home Depot. They provide quality products without breaking the bank.
How to Apply Mulch Effectively
When it comes to application, I advocate for the simple approach:
- Aim for a 2-inch layer covering the exposed soil.
- Make sure not to suffocate the base of your plants.
- Simply shake the mulch out of the bag, and use a garden rake to spread it uniformly.
- For those with large areas or those keen on an economical approach, cardboard mulching is a fantastic option. Just ensure to leave some breathing space around plant bases and moisten the cardboard to aid decomposition.
Act Now, Thank Yourself Later
While mulching might seem like an additional task now, it’s a proactive approach that saves hours of future weed removal. Especially after the recent rains, the sooner you mulch, the better. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself wrestling with weeds before getting to the mulching stage – and trust me, that’s double the work and half the fun!
In the world of gardening, as in life, it’s always better to stay a step ahead. So, grab your mulch and get to work! Your garden will thank you for it.
