If you like to garden, then there are a few basics that every gardener needs to know; such as mulching. There are so many materials to use for mulch, and differing opinions about how to apply it, it is really best to speak with a professional Minneapolis Landscaper concerning your specific property.

When you mulch you are slow feeding your garden a balanced diet throughout the year. Not only does it help your plants thrive, but it will make it look nice, too. Mulch will break down over time and add a variety of nutrients to the soil, making the garden healthy and well fed. When applied properly, it will also help retain moisture, so that the plants won’t be so apt to dry out during hot spells. Mulch is that insulation factor that will also help control weeds, and maintain an even temperature all year, so the change of seasons won’t take too heavy a toll on the plants underneath it.

 As for types of mulch, there are;

 Pine straw- high in acid, this is best for dogwoods, rhododendrons, and azaleas

Pine park nuggets- rather large in size, these will help camouflage falling pedals. They also make a nice path that will supply a visual direction within a garden.

Shredded pine and hardwood mulch- This can be double, and triple shredded mulch. Since it has been processed, it doesn’t last as long, and tends to be reabsorbed back into the soil a little faster; however it makes a beautiful appearance when first applied.

 Composted leaf mulch- easily the most common type, but it will break down much faster as well. Since it is so readily available every year, it is cost effective; it is appealing to many property owners.

Green mulch- Like leaf mulch, this is typically what is left over from a fallen tree. These fresh wood chips may produce a short term shortage of nitrogen in the soil, so it is a good idea to add about a half pound of high nitrogen fertilizer per 1,000 sf of 4” thick mulch. This will help keep your garden strong.

 The best application will use about 3-5” of mulch across the bed, because this will settle to about 2-4” over time. When it reaches approximately 1“thick, it will be time to replace it again. Remember, don’t load mulch up around the tree truck, this will only encourage root growth above the surface of the ground.

 When you need a few answers about how to handle your garden this year, give Minneapolis’ Architectural Landscape Design a call to find out what will work best for you. 952-292-7717