Benefits of Mulching in the Spring

Springtime mulching is one of the most effective steps you can take in keeping your food or decorative gardens healthy. Choosing the right type of mulch to go with your landscape's design can help you stay ahead of home improvement trends. By mulching every spring, you not only keep your plants happy and healthy by adding nutrients and locking in moisture, but you keep your landscaping looking its best.There are many different types of mulch, and the benefits and shortcomings of each vary just as much. Once you know the difference, you can be better prepared this spring when deciding on what route you want to take for mulching and enriching your garden’s soil.Valley Landscaping, specialists in hardscape and landscape services, is here to help you with your mulching and landscaping needs. Find out how we can help you get your yard and garden in tip-top shape for the summer by calling 410.983.6261.

Why Mulch in the Spring?

Having your garden professionally mulched in the spring ensures that your plants have an ideal environment to grow in. Springtime mulching not only increases the overall mineral quality of your soil but locks in moisture and prevents weed growth as well.

Types of Mulch

There is a wide range of mulch types available. It is best to think of it in terms of organic vs. inorganic - where the former will eventually decompose and need to be replaced and the latter being used with longevity in mind.

Organic Mulches

Organic mulches are generally used when the planter has soil enrichment in mind - due to the decomposition of organic mulches, many of them return nutrients into the soil that may have been depleted over time. Organic mulch can be made of any compostable plant or plant byproduct.

Wood chips

Hardwood or softwood chips can be used, but hardwood chips tend to decompose faster, so they will need to be replaced more often.

Pine needles, leaves, and grass clippings

The best thing about these is that they’re free, and even though they need to be replaced more often than wood chips, they remain a great option for soil enrichment.

Manure

This is a great option for early spring mulching and is probably the best option for adding nutrients to the soil.

Cardboard/paper

As plant byproducts, cardboard and paper can even be used for springtime mulching. They are not the best option for nutrients, but they do a great job locking in moisture and preventing weed growth.

Inorganic Mulches

Inorganic mulch has grown in popularity due to its one-and-done method of spreading. This non-degradable option looks great for decorative shrubs and trees and is unmatched in its ability to block weeds.

Rock

Both stone and lava rock are used for mulching in the spring and are easily the longest-lasting option today. Offering no nutrient value to the soil, the redeeming qualities are their ability to block weed growth and warm the soil for planting.

Rubber

Pulverized rubber mulch is a great way to repurpose old tires and other rubber refuse, and it can also be a great way to mulch around your plants this spring. You can count on rubber mulch to make your plant beds look great and stay weed-free.

Landscape Fabric

Landscape fabric can be used alone but is more commonly used in conjunction with another type of mulch, organic or inorganic. It is a fabric rolled out over your plant beds with cutouts to allow the plant to grow through it. Arguably the best in weed prevention and locking in moisture, this is a great choice for decorative plant beds.

Discover How Valley Landscaping Can Help With Your Springtime Mulching Needs

For the best springtime mulching services in the area, contact us at 410.983.6261. At Valley Landscaping, our professional landscape design experts can help you determine the best solutions for keeping your gardens healthy.