Mulching Your Garden

Recommended Depths

Annual weed suppression: 50–75mm. Perennial borders: 75–100mm. Tree circles: 75mm, keeping mulch away from the trunk. Too thin and weeds push through; too thick and plant crowns can rot.

When to Mulch

Apply mulch in spring after soil has warmed, or in autumn to protect roots over winter. Always mulch onto moist soil — mulching dry soil locks moisture out rather than in. Remove weeds first.

Types of Mulch

Bark chippings: long-lasting, slow to decompose, best for shrub borders. Wood chip: cheaper, decomposes faster and adds organic matter. Compost: best for vegetable beds, feeds plants. Decorative stone: permanent, no weeds, but adds no nutrients.

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