Think about our urban and suburban lives. Poor soil; unnatural fluctuations in heat and moisture; we rake up our leaves and cover the soil with concrete.
Think about trees in their natural forest environment. The soil has a blanket of leaves and other organic stuff, which is decomposing, providing the soil with a constant source of nutrients.
Mulch actually improves the soil! As mulch decomposes it adds humus and micro-nutrients to the soil. Additionally, studies have shown that the tree roots below mulch tend to have very high mycorrhiza colonies.
Mulch encourages the presence of earthworms which improve soil structure and add nutrients. But possibly the best reason for mulching your landscape beds is it looks terrific!
Are you ready to embrace using wood mulch in your garden but are not sure how to get started? At Wholesale Wood Products, we provide premium bulk wood mulch and compost for local Atlanta area property owners. Our experts enjoy helping our clients achieve their landscaping goals, and we want to help you as well. Here are some tips on how to lay mulch for optimal long term success.
Determine How Much Mulch You Will Need
First, you will need to calculate approximately how much wood mulch is necessary for your specific project. One cubic foot of mulch should cover an area that is around 14 cubic yard. Measure the length and width of the area where you will be placing the mulch and multiply those two numbers together to find out the total square feet of the space you want to cover. Then, divide this number by 14. Finally multiply the answer by the desired depth of mulch in inches. This will give you the number of cubic feet needed. Click here to checkout our calculator section to determine how much mulch you would need.
Choose the Right Time of Year
The second step is to decide when to lay the mulch. Mulching in the spring can help keep your garden looking fresh throughout the summer and can also assist in retaining moisture and suppressing stubborn weeds. You should also consider adding another layer of mulch in the fall, to help insulate the soil and plant roots through the cold winter months.
Clean and Water Your Landscaping Beds
Next, you will need to properly prepare your landscaping beds for mulching. This usually involves three steps. Get rid of unwanted items like sticks, rocks, and leaves. Then, check for weeds or invasive plants and uproot them. Establish a clear edge using a gardening tool. This will help keep the beds neat and organized during application. The final step of preparation is to dampen the soil with water just before laying the mulch.
Spread Your Mulch
When your plants are well established, you can then spread the mulch without fear of covering up the young seedlings. Be sure to keep the wood mulch at least three inches away from the trunks or base of your trees and shrubs. Ignoring this important step could result in fungal growth, rot, or pest problems. Use a garden hoe or rake to create an even distribution of mulch at the desired depth, usually around two inches. Depending on the time of year and the amount of rainfall in your area, watering after the mulch is applied may be necessary.
Do You Need Bulk Mulch for Your Atlanta Area Property? Visit Wholesale Wood Products
Are you looking for natural or colored wood mulch for your vegetable garden, flower beds, or landscape features? Then call or visit Wholesale Wood Products today. We offer quality bulk mulch and compost for residential and commercial clients in Atlanta and its surrounding communities. Contact our office to learn more about our products and services or to schedule a convenient appointment for your next wood mulch delivery.
