April 18, 2012 THE VILLADOM TIMES IV • Page 21 (ARA) One of the rites of spring is the addition of a fresh layer of mulch in the garden and around the trees. Mulch is much more than a layer of shredded bark. It is an invaluable ingredient to a successful growing season and helps prevent erosion and discourage weeds in the garden. Get the facts on mulch to impress all the neighbors and have a great looking landscape to boot. What is mulch? Just like the leaf layer found on a forest floor, mulch is a covering that can benefit both plants and soil. Consider the many different mulch types. Some contain leaves and bark that decompose, breaking down over time, while others are pebbles or shredded tires. The available varieties of materials are diverse and nearly limitless. The varieties of mulch that break down are beneficial to the nutritional makeup, or tilth, of the soil. Ingredients commonly used for beneficial mulching materials are bark or wood chips, leaves, grass clippings, straw or hay, newspaper, pine needles, cocoa shells, and compost. When selecting mulch, realize that not all mulches are the same. In the past, you may have laid mulch only to see it start to fade in a matter of weeks. This is a major frustration for gardeners. Scotts Nature Scapes Advanced with Color Guard technology retains its color A fresh layer of mulch brings many benefits for a full year backed by Scotts no-quibble guarantee. Where does it come from? From recycling last week’s newspapers or collecting grass clippings after mowing, to composting garden and kitchen waste, inexpensive mulch materials are readily available all around. The lumber and arborist industries often sell chipped wood products inexpensively. These wood chips tend to break down slowly and are sometimes used on garden paths and walkways. Many gardeners prefer the look of the woodchip or bark mulches that are available through local garden centers. Read the labels to determine the contents or sourcing of mulches before purchasing. Whether these mulches are sold by the bag or by the truckload, they tend to be partially composted and add a great, finished appearance to the garden while breaking down over time to add organic matter to the soil. Why do I need it? A mulch layer can moderate the soil temperature, reducing the effects of extreme heat or cold. Soil condition may be improved by the decomposing matter from mulch that provides plants with added nutrition. Mulching a garden creates the ideal environment for earthworms and beneficial organisms. Mulch also helps reduce the effects of heavy rains and soil erosion. Weeds will find it more difficult to grow in a mulched area, as the mulch helps to block weed growth and access to the sun. How much do I need? Measure the size of your flower bed and ask a staff member at your local nursery. When spreading mulch, draw a line about two to three inches from the bottom of a can or flower pot, and use it to spread mulch to the appropriate measured level. When should I use mulch? Mulch can be applied anytime, but it is best to spread it early in the growing season, before weeds have a chance to get established. Remove any existing weeds, and spread a two to three inch layer around landscaping plants, in the vegetable garden, or along walkways. If recent rains have made the garden too muddy, mulch is also a great way to create a dry path. A fresh mulch layer is extremely beneficial, and can make the garden and landscaping look fabulous. The proper application of mulch demonstrates your expertise to your friends and neighbors, and helps create a naturally weed-free environment to maximize your garden’s growth.