Mulch

Mulch: the benefits of using mulch

This hasn't been a great summer for those plants which are sun-lovers, but ideal for anyone who has recently planted a garden - no need for watering. However, the rain has meant plenty of leafy growth, and some plants look great in the rain. In weather like this, adding a layer of mulch to the top of the soil is more important that ever. Mulch stops the soil from splashing up onto the undersides of plants, prevents mud splashing against buildings, and prevents nutrients from being washed away. Mulch can take many forms: gravel, slate, bark, manure, garden compost. Generally speaking, use a mulch such as gravel or slate for plants which like drier, warmer conditions (such as herbs), as these materials absorb and store heat, and ensure that the upper surface of the soil remains dry. Use bark mulch around the base of trees and shrubs, where it keeps down weeds and grass and will slowly be absorbed into the soil. For faster-growing plants such as perennials, grasses and vegetables, use a finer mulch such as well-rotted farmyard manure, composted leaves, or home-made compost. This will rot down quickly into the soil, or be pulled down by earthworms, making the soil lighter and more free-draining, whilst protecting the upper surface from the elements.

As a general rule, bark mulch and non-degradable mulch such as gravel or slate should be applied at the time of planting. Lighter, more degradable mulches such as compost or manure should be applied at the end of the year (late Autumn), when many plants are cut back, and topped up again in the spring if necessary. Take care when spreading mulch not to damage tips of new plants or bulbs. Depending on the type of planting, spread mulch to a depth of 1 - 3 inches.