Mulch season is here, folks! It’s that magical time of year when your yard gets a fresh coat of color, texture, and protection from the harsh elements. Want to get your mulching right this season? Here are a few key mulch landscaping ideas to start mulch season strong.

Mulch Landscaping Ideas—the Do’s and Don’ts of Mulching

Do Choose the Right Mulch for Your Garden

Mulch is not one-size-fits-all. There’s an entire world of mulch out there. When selecting mulch, consider your plant types, soil needs, and aesthetic preferences. Musselman offers a variety of mulch options to suit every need, ensuring your garden gets the perfect topping.

Don’t Pile Mulch Around Tree Trunks (No Mulch Volcanoes!)

We’ve all seen it—those towering mulch piles around tree trunks that resemble little volcanoes. While they may look harmless, they can actually harm your trees by trapping moisture and causing root rot. Instead, keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk and spread it evenly around the base.

Do Mulch Before the Heat Hits

Timing is everything! Mulch works its best when applied before summer’s scorching sun arrives. This helps insulate the soil and reduce water evaporation. So, don’t wait until your garden is in full bloom to get mulching—start early, and your plants will thank you!

Don’t Ignore the Soil Underneath

Mulch is a wonderful addition, but it can’t do it all on its own. Before you start mulching, make sure your soil is healthy and ready to thrive. Amend your soil with compost or organic matter as needed. A healthy soil foundation is key to long-lasting mulch success.

Do Mulch in the Right Amount

You don’t need a mountain of mulch to make a difference, but you do need enough to help your plants thrive. Aim for a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch. Any more, and you risk smothering your plants. Any less, and you won’t reap the full benefits.

Don’t Mulch in the Rain

While a little drizzle is fine, heavy rain can turn mulch into a soggy mess. Wet mulch can compact, making it less effective at retaining moisture and potentially harming your plants. Wait for a dry day to spread your mulch, and it will stay in place and perform at its best.

Do Refresh Your Mulch Regularly

Mulch can break down over time, losing its color and effectiveness. To keep your garden looking fresh and vibrant, give it a mulch refresh every year. This also helps maintain its moisture retention and weed-blocking abilities.

Find Your Mulch Match at Musselman!

At Musselman, we believe mulch should do more than just look good—it should work hard for your garden, too. That’s why we offer premium-quality mulch that helps retain moisture, improve soil health, and, of course, add a touch of beauty to your landscape. Empty beds are NO fun. Contact Musselman today for expert advice and mulch delivery! Happy mulching!