If there’s one thing you must learn to improve the quality of your soil, it’s mulching hands down! This technique is ideal for all soil types, regardless of the plants you’re growing.
This is an incredibly simple process that even beginners can try out. You’ll be surprised by how well your crop grows.
Let me tell you all about mulching!
Why You Should Mulch
Mulching is the process of covering your soil with a thin layer of organic mulch. This can be a substitute for fertilization or a simple way to get rid of plant waste.
Over time mulching will enhance the quality of the soil by offering the following benefits:
1 – Keeping Soil Moist
One of the most important parts of gardening is retaining soil moisture. After all, water is the life source of every living organism, including plants.
Well, mulch prevents water evaporation from the soil during hot and sunny days. Not only will this supply more moisture for the plants, but it also reduces your water usage and your time and effort!
2 – Controlling Soil Temperature
Soil temperature is crucial for plant growth. If the soil is too cold, the seed might not germinate. On the other hand, hot soil can scorch the plant and lead to water loss.
Mulch acts as a barrier between soil and the external environment. It in turn regulates the temperature of the soil, keeping it optimal for the growth of your crops.
3 – Preventing Weed Growth
Every gardener knows how annoying weed can be. Luckily, you don’t need to spend hours deweeding and protecting your plants. Putting down a 2-inch layer of mulch will do the trick.
Weed requires sunlight and warmth to grow. Mulch blocks these essentials, completely eliminating your weed problem.
4 – Beginner-Friendly
You don’t need to be a beginner to spread mulch. It’s a straightforward process that you can master even if it’s your first time gardening.
All you need to do is select the type of mulch and spread it over the soil with a rake. Focus on the base of trees and plants to provide an extra layer of protection.
5 – Inexpensive
Whether you’re starting your gardening journey or have been a green thumb for ages, choosing the correct supplies can be confusing and expensive.
Mulching can actually save you money in the long run as you’ll be using less water. Besides, you can use any household scraps!
Choosing the Best Material for Mulching
The beauty of mulching is that it’s inexpensive. You can use any organic products you have on hand, ranging from food and plant trimmings to store-bought mulch.
1 – Organic Scraps
If you’re looking to fertilize your soil, get rid of waste, and mulch your garden, look no further than organic waste.
This is typically food scraps from your kitchen, such as vegetable peels and fruits. You can even use plant trimmings, leaves, and hay as mulch!
2 – Paper
Paper is another exceptional organic mulch. It’s readily available in all homes and decomposes perfectly without leaving any trace or smell.
3 – Gravel
So you want to spruce up your garden and provide exceptional benefits? Gravel is an inexpensive method to prevent moisture evaporation and maintain soil temperature.
While gravel doesn’t decompose and fertilize the soil, it’s a permanent solution to all your mulching needs.
Final Thoughts
Mulching is an inexpensive solution that works wonders, especially for beginners. It’s the perfect way to preserve water and reduce your gardening effort.
Mulch also doubles as a fertilizer and a weed control agent, so it’s great for budget-conscious gardeners!
Growing up with a mom who filled her home (inside and out) with all sorts of plants, Lisa got her start in gardening at a young age. Living now on her own with a home and yard full of plants (including an indoor greenhouse), she shares all the gardening tips she’s gained over the years.