Groundskeeper

Mulching Techniques: Soil Protection and Moisture

March 18, 2025

Groundskeeper Team

5 min read

Mulching Techniques: Soil Protection and Moisture

Applying a layer of mulch is one of the best things you can do for your garden beds and trees. Mulch is a protective layer of material spread on top of the soil that offers a wide range of benefits, from conserving water to suppressing weeds. Applying it correctly is key to reaping all its advantages.

🏆 The Many Benefits of Mulch

Mulching does much more than just make your garden beds look tidy.

💧 Conserves Moisture

A layer of mulch reduces evaporation from the soil surface, meaning you have to water less often.

🌿 Suppresses Weeds

A thick layer of mulch blocks sunlight, preventing many weed seeds from germinating.

🌡️ Regulates Soil Temperature

Mulch keeps the soil cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, protecting plant roots from extreme temperatures.

🌱 Improves Soil Health

As organic mulches (like bark or compost) break down, they add valuable nutrients and organic matter to the soil.

📋 Common Types of Mulch

Choose the right mulch for your needs.

bark

Shredded Bark/Wood Chips: The most common type for landscape beds. It's attractive, breaks down slowly, and is great for use around trees and shrubs.

straw

Straw or Pine Needles: Excellent for vegetable gardens and around acid-loving plants. They are lightweight and break down quickly.

compost

Compost: While used as a soil amendment, a layer of compost also makes an excellent, nutrient-rich mulch.

🔧 How to Apply Mulch Correctly

The right technique is crucial for plant health.

Weed and Water First: Thoroughly weed the garden bed and give it a good watering before applying mulch.

Apply a 2-3 Inch Layer: Spread the mulch evenly over the soil surface to a depth of about 2 to 3 inches. Any deeper can suffocate the soil; any shallower won't be effective at weed control.

Avoid "Volcano Mulching": Do NOT pile mulch up against the trunks of trees or the stems of plants. This traps moisture against the bark and can lead to rot and disease. Always leave a few inches of space around the base of each plant.

Give your plants the protection they need to thrive. Aircare In A Box provides professional mulching services, including delivery and expert application, to keep your landscape beds healthy and looking their best. Contact us for a quote.