How to maintain your mulch so it’s permanently neat and tidy.
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Theres a definite art to landscaping if your end-goal is to boost thatcurb appeal.
The tricky thing about using mulch, though, is that it tends to migrate over time.
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Heres how to keep mulch in place so it looks great and serves its job.
To top beds in the sun, I suggest shredded hardwood, which is typically called bark mulch.
It has good staying power and doesnt break down so quickly.
There is a lot to choose from, Hooper says.
For rocky areas I use pea stone to protect my rock garden plants.
This helps slow down water flow, which reduces erosion and spread.
It alsomaintains a neat appearanceand reduces soil erosion.
Keep It Moist
Watering your mulch is a must.
Be sure to adjust your watering accordingly based on the new increased water retention in the beds.
Aim for one to two inches of water per week, or as needed depending on rainfall.
Secure the netting with stakes.
Spread mulch to a depth of two to four inches, she instructs.
Too thin a layer wont provide benefits, while too thick can lead to rot and mold.
If the mulch becomes rotten, then youll need to remove it.
Reapply Annually
Mulch is organic matter, so itll naturally break down over time.
That said, re-laying mulch is an annual project.
Hovis recommends topping it off in the spring to help prepare for the upcoming growing season.
It also helpskeep weeds at bayand improves ecosystems.
Mulch also creates a more uniform appearance in your landscaping.
Allen says it’s possible for you to think of mulch as a layer of frosting on a cake.
It keeps whats underneath moist, but also looks beautiful.
Of course, natural earthy hues are beautiful, too.
