Mulch Basics

In the next few weeks you will notice a change in the air. The familiar smell of mulch will reappear and bring with it a refocused energy. It is time to shake off the long winter blues and embrace the new life that spring brings.

Mulch not only makes your landscape and beds look nice, it also helps to conserve water, control weed growth, and, depending on the type of mulch used, adds nutrients to your soil.

Spring mulching should take place after the ground has warmed sufficiently. If it is applied too early it can cause perennial plants to come out of their winter dormancy before they are really ready, leading to less flowering and possibly plant death.

If your soil is protected from the wind and the sun by a layer of mulch, the water will evaporate slower from the soil. This will save you time and money! Keep an eye on your mulched beds after a heavy rainfall. If there are any puddles or extremely soggy spots, rake off some of the mulch temporarily to allow your soil to dry a bit.

Unfortunately bugs, such as slugs and worms, love moist, dark places. They will hide out in and under your mulch. To help minimize the amount of bugs in shady areas use a thinner layer.

When mulching, make sure you keep it several inches away from the base of your plants. Plants need to breathe just as much as we do!

Paramount can take care of the whole process for you. We will begin completing Spring Clean-Ups soon. This process includes weeding and mulching.

Check back soon to read our blog about the different types of mulch that are available!