Skip to main content

Natural Awakenings Dallas -Fort Worth Metroplex Edition

 972.992.8815

Mulch is the Gardener’s Friend

Mulch is an essential part of an organic program for any landscape. Nature has been mulching for years in the forest and prairies with its own recycled plant materials. Mulch helps preserve soil moisture, which is a must in our summer heat in North Texas. When mulch is applied to flower beds and around trees, it also keep the soil surface cooler, which benefits earthworms, microorganisms and the roots of plants. As it breaks down, it feeds the soil community with humus and rich, organic matter.

Weeds grow more readily on bare soil, so mulch helps prevent weed germination. A good two-to-three-inch layer of mulch is usually sufficient. Be sure not to “volcano up” around trees. There should be no mulch piled up around the base of a tree; keep the root flare exposed and taper it away from the trunk to the desired depth.

There are several types of mulch available. Native hardwood has great benefits because it breaks down into the soil and it looks great. Other types include pecan shells, pine bark, cypress mulch/bark and cedar mulch. There are also painted or dyed wood chips available that offer longer-lasting color, but little value to the soil. In the end any mulch is better than no mulch.

For more information, call 469-744-0281 or visit EarthkindServices.com.