Mulching Garden Beds to Save Water and Protect Plants
A layer of mulch is one of the simplest things you can add to a garden bed. It sits on top of the soil and acts like a blanket. It slows down water loss, keeps weeds in check and shades the root zone from the hottest sun. Done well, it means less time with the hose and healthier plants.
Done badly, mulch can cause problems of its own. Piled too thick or pushed hard against stems, it can starve roots of air or cause rot. The good news is that the rules are simple. This guide covers the main types of mulch, how deep to spread it and how to keep it working over time.