Mulching is a simple and effective technique that protects the soil, reduces water evaporation, limits weed growth, and enriches the earth. It is particularly useful as it simplifies garden maintenance. Discover the benefits of mulching, how to mulch your garden properly, and how to choose the most suitable mulch!
What is mulching, and what is it used for?
Mulching or mulch in English involves covering the soil with a layer of organic materials (chopped straw, hay, dead leaves, etc.) to protect and improve its quality. This simple technique mimics nature: in the forest, dead leaves form a carpet that nourishes and protects the soil. This protective layer acts as a natural shield while reducing maintenance efforts. Here are some good reasons to adopt it:
- Reduced watering: By retaining soil moisture, mulching decreases the frequency of watering needed.
- Weed control: A thick layer of mulch prevents weeds from growing.
- Improved soil structure: The organic materials used for mulching decompose over time, nourishing the soil and promoting better aeration and rainwater drainage.
- Protection against temperature fluctuations: Mulch insulates the soil, maintaining a more constant temperature, which benefits plants.
- Aesthetics: A well-mulched garden looks neat and tidy!
- → Michaël explains all the benefits of mulching in Mulching: Why and How?
What is the most effective mulch?
The choice of mulch depends on the garden's specific needs, based on the type of cultivation. The best mulch is the one that suits your needs!
- Organic mulch: (straw, dead leaves, dried grass clippings, wood chips, hemp, flax, miscanthus, BRF, cocoa shells, buckwheat hulls) helps enrich the soil and is particularly suitable for vegetable gardens and flower beds.
- Mineral mulch: (crushed slate, pumice, gravel) improves drainage and heat retention but does not nourish the soil. It is suitable for Mediterranean plants and rock gardens.
- Synthetic mulch: (plastic sheets or films). Less eco-friendly, it is sometimes used for specific crops. It limits weed growth and evaporation, but its benefits stop there. Dark sheets tend to heat the soil under the sun. To learn more, check out our article: "Mulch Fabric: For or Against?"
Good to know: In our nursery, you'll find ready-to-use mulches to reduce maintenance. These products are practical, easy to install, and suitable for beginners. They quickly provide the benefits of mulching without preparation.
When should you apply mulch?
There are three good times to mulch your garden:
- At the start of the season: Wait until your plants have grown well before applying mulch. If applied too early, seeds may not germinate properly.
- In summer: During hot weather, mulch helps retain soil moisture and protects roots from drought. Apply it after watering or rain so it adheres well to the damp soil.
- In autumn: Before winter, mulch protects roots from the cold and prevents soil damage from rain. Natural mulches, like leaves or straw, also nourish the soil as they decompose.
The 5 key steps for effective mulching
Required materials:
- A pair of gardening gloves
- A rake for spreading the mulch
- Mature compost: to enrich the soil before mulching
- Mulch of your choice
- A bag, wheelbarrow, or bucket to transport and spread the mulch easily over the areas to be covered.
- Step 1: Weed thoroughly
Before laying the mulch, it is essential to remove all weeds from the area to be mulched. Weed carefully by hand or with a suitable tool. Then, lightly loosen the soil with a rake to encourage water and nutrient penetration. If necessary, water to ensure the soil is moist before applying the mulch.
- Step 2: Add a light layer of compost (optional)
A well-nourished soil promotes plant growth and enhances the effectiveness of the mulch. Spread a thin layer of mature compost (about 1 to 2 cm) on the soil before mulching. This compost will enrich the soil with nutrients and stimulate microbial activity, ensuring a more fertile soil in the long term.
- Step 3: Spread the mulch evenly
Distribute the mulch evenly over the soil at a thickness of 5 to 10 centimetres. A layer that is too thin will be ineffective against weeds, while a layer that is too thick will prevent water from penetrating the soil. Avoid placing mulch directly against plant stems to prevent rot.
- Step 4: Maintain and renew the mulch
Over time, organic mulch decomposes and needs to be replenished regularly. Check its condition every few months and add a new layer if necessary. If using grass clippings, ensure they are thoroughly dried before application to avoid rotting.
- Step 5: Water after applying the mulch
Once the mulch is in place, water generously to help it adhere to the soil and begin to stabilise. This watering also ensures the lower layers are moist and activates the decomposition of organic mulches.
Additional tips and mistakes to avoid
- Do not mulch during strong winds, as lightweight materials like straw, grass clippings, or dead leaves may blow away. Also, avoid mulching when the soil is frozen, as mulch acts as an insulator and could delay soil warming in spring, slowing plant growth.
- Avoid mulch that is too thick or too thin: A layer over 10 cm can prevent water and air from penetrating the soil, encouraging mould and root rot. Conversely, a layer that is too thin will be ineffective against weeds and evaporation.
- Do not use overly damp mulch! Excess moisture can encourage fungal growth. Ensure the mulch remains well-aerated.
- Generally, there is no need to remove mulch unless it is contaminated by diseases or pests. Organic materials can be incorporated into the soil to enrich it.
Comments