Mulch More Benefits Than You Can Imagine!

Mulch is the one green industry service and/or product that everyone knows something about. People either know it can smell terrible, recognize the funny jokes about it in insurance commercials, or use it for their property. 

No matter what you know about mulch, you are about to learn a lot more. 

What exactly is mulch?

Origin of Mulch

In simple terms, mulch is an application that is applied to your lawn and landscape to maintain its health. However, mulch does so much for your property that it goes above and beyond a simple definition. 

When you discuss mulch, it needs to be broken down into subcategories such as: 

• Where on your property should you use mulch?
• Are there different types of mulch?
• How do I shop for mulch?
• How should I apply mulch?
• When should I mulch?
• Can you make mistakes with mulch?
• What are the benefits of mulch?

What parts of my property should I use mulch on?

Where?

Mulch is used on lawns as it helps the soil and prevents weeds from forming. It also helps the lawn stay moist and lowers the risk of soil erosion on your property. 

However, mulch is beneficial for your gardens, flower beds, trees, and shrubs. It does the same for the plant life on your lawn in terms of moist soil and weed protection. Mulch is a great protector of your property and does its part in keeping all your plant life healthy. 

Mulch also can be used as a barrier to your plant life. For example, it stops foot traffic as people, pets, or children are less likely to walk on it. 

Are there different varieties of mulch on the market?

Mulch Options

There are multiple types of mulch on the market today. However, choosing the right type of mulch is essential and is determined based on your specific area and needs. 

The most common types of mulch on the market today are: 

1. Nut hulls
2. Pine Straw
3. Bark
4. Cocoa
5. Shells
6. Seaweed

Believe it or not, cocoa has become one of the most popular because it is a great smelling mulch that makes it unique and different and lets your property have a fantastic aroma. 

Another option for mulch not on the list is colored mulch. This allows you to contrast colors in your flower beds, stick to your landscape’s theme or color pattern, and still has the same benefits as any other mulch. 

With multiple options, shopping for mulch can be challenging. 

How do I shop for mulch?

When you buy mulch from a store, you’re taking a chance. You don’t know how long that mulch has been there. It can also be rotten or mixed with weeds and seeds. Shop for mulch from a landscaping place or use them for the services is the best choice for mulch. Don’t risk your landscape’s health for cheap or rotten mulch! 

When you buy the right mulch, you must know how to apply it. 

How should I apply mulch on my property?

Application

It’s all about using it correctly, starting with its application when it comes to something essential for your landscape, like mulch. 

When putting mulch down on your property, it should be done in thin layers. Especially when using it on flower beds and the borders of your lawn. This will help create a beautiful and neat look. 

When using mulch, you want to ensure you are switching it out from time to time. Since mulch can be used at different times throughout the year (except winter), a common rule is that you want to remove some of the old mulch every time you add new mulch. 

Mulch should be kept fresh, ensuring the health of your property. (Especially in your garden and flower beds)

When should I apply mulch on my property?

When

Mulch is usually applied during the spring and fall seasons but can be used all year round. You will want to put a decent amount of water in the areas before and after mulch. The mulch will absorb the water and keep the soil moist so you can water less frequently. 

One of the main rules of applying mulch is that you want to apply it to your landscape when your seedlings are between four and six inches in height. 

Quick Tip: Do not apply it to your plant stems when laying mulch. It needs to be an inch away from them. Mulch will burn through them if applied directly to them. 

Are there mistakes to be made with mulch?

Mistakes

Like most things, there is a wrong way to apply or use mulch. Some of the more common mistakes are: 

1. Applying much directly on plants.
2. Using too much mulch.
3. Using not enough mulch. 
4. Applying mulch in windy conditions and/or rainy conditions.
5. Applying mulch when weeds are present. 
6. Applying mulch in the winter (frozen soil).
7. Use mulch on your own! 

What are the benefits of applying mulch on my property?

Benefits

As we stated, mulch is essential for your property. It has incredible benefits beyond just keeping your landscape healthy when applied and used correctly. Mulch:

1. Keeps your soil moist by retaining water.
2. Prevents soil erosion. 
3. Fights against weeds.
4. Adds nutrients to your soil.
5. It helps soil and plants adapt to temperature changes.
6. Organic mulch brings earthworms. 

How can I receive the benefits of a mulching service?

Pros

You guarantee that your property receives the benefits of a mulching service when you get the service done by professionals. Therefore, it would be most beneficial if you bought/received your mulch from them, and they should be doing your mulching for you. 

They know how to mulch best, and they have the knowledge, skills, and proper equipment to do so. Professionals get you the best results by giving you top-quality services. 

If you own property in Muhlenberg County, KY, or its surrounding areas, you can use Perfection Lawn and Landscape professionals to provide your mulching services! 

We are friendly and professional! So, call us today to get started!