If you own a garden, chances are you are probably familiar with mulch; however, if you do not have a garden or are not familiar with mulch, then allow us at Keane, your Dallas landscaping services, to explain. Mulch is an inhibitor for the growth of weeds. Mulch is an insulant. Mulch is decoration. Mulch is a protective coat. Mulch is a sealant. Mulch is a form of pest control, but we do not just want to give you a checklist. Our goal is to explain how mulch simultaneously provides all of these services, and the science behind why mulch is necessary to ensure your garden’s journey to its’ cultivation destination.
First and foremost, organic mulches, such as wood chips, newspaper, grass clippings, or composted manure serve your garden in a variety of ways because they are natural components of any ecosystem untapped by man or machine. There are no man made chemicals or processes that tamper with your garden or the mulch upon its application. Let’s dive into specific reasons why mulch should be used:
- Mulch is an inhibitor to the growth of weeds because they smother weed seeds, which blocks any water or sunlight from reaching those seeds. Your garden will still experience weed growth, but not nearly as much as it would without mulch at all.
- Mulch is an insulant because it adds an additional layer to your soil; therefore, during the winter your soil bed is less likely to freeze over.
- Mulch is decoration because it adds a polished look to your yard and ultimately will make it look neater due to fewer weeds invading your garden.
- Mulch serves as a protective coat from the elements. Rainfall can compact your soil together, then the sun will bake your soil. This process is not good for the soil, but the layer of mulch will hinder this process.
- Mulch is a sealant because it will help retain moisture in dry temperatures, and moisture is vital to maintaining a healthy garden.
- Mulch serves as a form of pest control by doubling as a nesting area for plant-friendly insects such as small spiders and earthworms.
- Mulch is combative against erosion by keeping soil at bay after intense rainfall or from people and animals walking in your garden.
- “Waste” such as hedge trimmings and grass clippings can be recycled and used as mulch rather than thrown away.
- Mulch ensures support for plants and young seedlings.
- Mulch minimizes lawn mower damage because the blades of the mower are not coming into direct contact with solid earth.
Mulch provides endless possibilities. Keep in mind that the environment in which your garden is under is not exactly natural in the purest sense of the word. Mulch is a must because it provides the support that your plants would otherwise have in their native ecosystems. Other Dallas landscaping services may not place as much emphasis on mulches and their many benefits, but here at Keane Landscaping, we care about providing you with the best possible resources to help you achieve the garden you deserve. Contact us today for more information and Dallas landscaping services that will help your garden grow to its full potential.
