How to Lay Mulch

Mulching garden beds retains moisture (reducing watering by 25-50%), suppresses weeds, moderates soil temperature, and improves soil health as it decomposes. The most common mistake is applying it too deep or piling it against plant stems.

Step 1: Calculate Mulch Needed

Use the Mulch Calculator to get cubic yards or bags needed. Standard depth is 2-3 inches for established beds, 3-4 inches for new beds. More than 4 inches causes oxygen deprivation and root rot in shallow-rooted plants.

Step 2: Choose the Right Mulch

Shredded hardwood bark: the most common choice - moderate cost, slow to decompose. Cedar/cypress: naturally insect-repellent and longer-lasting. Pine bark: acidic, good for acid-loving plants. Straw: best for vegetable gardens - cheap and decomposes quickly.

Step 3: Prepare the Bed

Pull existing weeds from the root - mulch suppresses new weed seeds but doesn't kill established weeds. Trim plants back slightly. Edge the bed cleanly. If desired, lay cardboard or 4-layer newspaper as a weed barrier before mulching.

Step 4: Apply the Mulch

Spread mulch from the center outward with a garden fork or by hand. Aim for a consistent 2-3 inch depth across the entire bed. Check depth frequently with a ruler.

Step 5: Keep Mulch Away from Stems

Pull mulch back 2-3 inches from all plant stems and tree trunks. Mulch piled against stems traps moisture, causes stem rot, and creates habitat for insects and rodents. Keep a clear, dry zone around every stem and trunk.

Step 6: Maintain the Mulch Layer

Mulch settles and decomposes over the season - refresh to 2-3 inches in spring each year. Fluff existing mulch before topping up - old compacted mulch can form a hydrophobic crust. Replace mulch entirely every 3-4 years as it fully decomposes.

Pro Tips

• Never mulch deeper than 4 inches.
• Keep mulch away from plant stems and tree trunks.
• Fresh wood chip mulch can temporarily deplete nitrogen - let chips age 6 months before using around plants.
• Order bulk mulch for areas over 200 sq ft.
• Apply mulch when the soil is moist, not dry.