Why mulch?
- Holds moisture in the soil during hot summers
- Blocks many weeds
- Keeps soil temperature more even
- Breaks down over time and improves heavy clay soil
- Protects tree trunks from mower and trimmer damage
- Makes beds look clean and finished
How deep should mulch be?
About 2 to 3 inches is right for most beds. Less than that and weeds poke through. More than that and water and air cannot reach the roots.
Old mulch builds up over the years. If your beds already have a thick layer, we may freshen or turn it instead of piling on more.
No mulch volcanoes
A mulch volcano is a big cone of mulch piled against a tree trunk. It looks tidy, but it traps moisture against the bark, invites rot and insects, and can cause roots to circle the trunk. Mulch around trees should be a wide, flat ring, pulled a few inches back from the trunk.
Our mulching service
Clean the beds
We pull weeds and clear leaves and debris before any mulch goes down.
Cut clean edges
A sharp edge between bed and lawn keeps grass from creeping in and makes the whole yard look sharper.
Spread evenly
Mulch goes down at an even depth, kept off plant stems and tree trunks.
Types of mulch
Shredded hardwood
Natural look, knits together so it does not wash away easily, and breaks down into good organic matter.
Dyed mulch
Holds a strong color longer. Some people love the look, others prefer natural.
Wood chips
Coarse chips work well around trees and in natural areas.
When to mulch
Spring is the most popular time, after a spring cleanup. Mulching in fall also helps protect roots over winter. New beds should be mulched right after planting.