How to Refresh Mulch in Your Garden for Summer

Posted on August 14th, 2024 by Devine Bros

Summer isn’t over yet, so now is the perfect time to give your garden a little TLC by refreshing your mulch. Mulch plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy garden by retaining moisture, suppressing weeds, and even enhancing the visual appeal of your yard.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, refreshing your mulch is a straightforward task that can yield significant benefits for your plants throughout the rest of summer.

Why Refreshing Mulch is Important

Over time, mulch can decompose and become compacted, losing its effectiveness. By refreshing it, you improve its appearance and restore its beneficial properties. A fresh layer of mulch helps:

Retain Moisture: Mulch acts as a protective barrier, reducing evaporation and helping your soil retain moisture. This is particularly helpful during hot summer months when water conservation is essential.
Suppress Weeds: A thick layer of mulch can prevent weed seeds from accessing sunlight, thus hindering their growth and keeping your garden neat and tidy.
Regulate Soil Temperature: Mulch insulates the soil, keeping it cooler during summer days and providing a more stable environment for plant roots.

Best Types of Mulch to Use

Choosing the right type of mulch is key to getting the most out of your garden. Here are some popular options:

Organic Mulches: These include wood chips, bark, straw, and leaves. They add nutrients to the soil as they break down and are excellent for improving soil structure.
Inorganic Mulches: Gravel, stones, and landscape fabric are durable options that don’t decompose, making them ideal for areas where permanent coverage is desired.

For most gardens, organic mulches are preferable due to their soil-enriching properties.

Step-by-Step Guide to Refreshing Mulch

Assess Your Mulch Needs: Before you begin, check the condition of your existing mulch. If it’s decomposed or matted down, it’s time to add more.
Clear the Area: Remove any weeds or debris from the mulched area. This ensures that the new mulch layer will be clean and effective.
Loosen the Old Mulch: Use a rake to fluff up the existing mulch. This aerates the material and helps integrate the new layer with the old.
Add New Mulch: Spread a fresh layer of mulch over the old, aiming for a total depth of about 2 to 4 inches. Be careful not to pile mulch against plant stems or tree trunks to prevent rot.
Water the Mulch: After spreading, give the mulch a good watering. This helps settle it into place and begins the moisture retention process.

Practical Tips for Every Gardener

Timing: The best time to refresh mulch is in late spring or early summer before the hottest weather sets in.
Quantity: Use about 2-3 cubic feet of mulch for every 100 square feet of garden area to achieve the recommended depth.
Maintenance: Check your mulch periodically throughout the summer and replenish it as needed to maintain its effectiveness.

Mulch Material in Norwalk, Connecticut

Helping Norwalk homeowners improve their lives is something Devine Brothers has been providing to their customers for over 100 years! If you’re interested in learning more about our service or need supplies, make sure to contact us today! For more tips & tricks, make sure to like us on Facebook.