Mulching is simply a term to describe the addition of layer of either organic or inorganic matter over the top of the soil.

Why Mulch
There are 3 key reasons why you should mulch your garden;

1. Helps to regulate soil temperature, protecting plant roots from frosts in winter and from scorching in summer
2. Helps to reduce evaporation from the soil making more water available for the plants to use
3. Helps to suppress weeds by stopping light reaching seeds and therefore stopping them germinating

What to Use
Inorganic mulches include special paper, plastic woven sheeting and fabrics. They are useful for suppressing weed growth and are easy to lay but do have a major disadvantage in that it is difficult to add further organic matter to the soil once down.

Organic mulches such as bark not only retain heat, reduce evaporation and suppress weeds but have the added advantage of being decorative and therefore provide a beautiful finish to ornamental beds and containers. Organic mulches should be at least 5cm (2 inches) deep. Several options are available depending upon the finish you require; Decorative Mini Bark is perfect for containers and small borders whereas Bed & Border Chipped Bark ideal for larger areas. Coloured bark is also available with Terracotta chips to create a Mediterranean feel or Black wood chips for a dramatic effect in your borders.

Garden Gravel can also be used, providing all the benefits of an organic mulch as well as being ideal for creating pathways and giving a decorative finish to rockeries.

When mulching your veg beds opt for organic Farmyard Manure. It will retain heat and moisture and help to suppress weeds but will also add lots of nutrients to your beds which will quickly become depleted by all those hungry vegetable plants.

When Should I mulch
For the best results organic mulches will need to be topped up regularly, once a year is ideal. Apply a mulch when the ground is warm and moist to benefit best from the effects. Spring is the ideal time when the ground has warmed sufficiently but before the sun has dried out the ground.