Now is the perfect time to start prepping for the spring rush. One of the easiest and most rewarding tasks to tick off your list is mulching. Not only will it help your garden thrive but it’ll save you time and effort later on. Let’s chat about why mulching is a game-changer and what to use! 

Why Mulch? 

Mulch is like a cozy blanket for your plants. It keeps soil moist, insulates roots against chilly temperatures, suppresses weeds & adds nutrients to your soil as it breaks down. Plus, it looks neat and tidy – just what your garden needs to transition from winter to spring. 

Top Benefits of Mulching: 

• Keeps Soil Moist – less watering? Yes, please! 

• Blocks Weeds – fewer weeds, less work. Win-win. 

• Regulates Temperature – protects your plants from wild weather. 

• Improves Soil – adds nutrients and makes your soil happy. 

• Looks Neat – instant curb appeal. 

What to Use for Mulching? 

Organic material is the top mulch choice for your garden, coming in many forms and with the benefit of adding nutrients back into the soil as it breaks down over time. Compost (either from your own compost bin or bought from the garden centre, peat free of course!) or leaf mould are nutrient packed & perfect for all areas. Wood chips or bark are slow to decompose & great for flower beds and around trees. And if you have acid-loving plants like azaleas & blueberries, pine needles are a great mulch. 

How to Mulch Like a Pro: 

1. Tidy the Area: Get rid of weeds and debris. 

1. Apply 2 to 4 Inches: A good mulch layer should be thick but not piled up against plant stems. Think of it as colouring in between the plants. 

1. Water It In: Make sure it’s damp to help it settle in. 

1. Keep an Eye on It: Mulch breaks down over time, so top it up as needed again in the autumn.  

In a Nutshell: 

Mulching in early spring is an easy win for your garden. It saves you time, reduces work & gives your plants a solid head start for the coming season. Whether you go for compost, leaves or bark, mulching is one of those ‘set it and forget it’ jobs that makes a big difference. Happy gardening & here’s to a flourishing spring!