East Sussex

Winter Mulching

A job done in the quiet months that makes the whole next season easier.

SUPPRESSES WEEDS

Less hand-weeding next summer

HOLDS MOISTURE

Kinder to plants in dry spells

FEEDS THE SOIL

Builds soil life and structure

LIGHTER WORKLOAD

A quieter spring and summer

Why mulch

The best time to save yourself some work

A good layer of mulch is one of the simplest things you can do for a garden. Put down over winter, it keeps weeds in check, holds on to moisture, and leaves a lot less to do next season.

What it is

A layer of organic material spread over the soil, around plants and across beds. Compost, leaf mould, bark or woodchip, depending on what the bed needs.

Why winter

Beds are cleared, the soil is damp and most plants are resting. It is the easiest time to get it on cleanly, and it is ready for spring growth.

Where it works

Borders and shrub beds, veg plots, the base of trees, hedges and orchard trees.

How thick

Usually 5 to 7cm, kept clear of stems and trunks so nothing rots.

Best for

Larger beds and borders where weeding is a regular chore, and veg plots you want to keep productive with less effort.

On its own or with care

Mulching can be a one-off winter job, or part of regular garden care.

How it works

Four simple steps

Free site visit

I look at your beds and soil, and what you want from them.

Choose the mulch

We pick the right material for each area.

Prepare the beds

I clear and weed so the mulch sits on clean soil.

Spread it

I lay it evenly at the right depth, clear of stems and trunks.

Making your own compost?

Good mulch starts with good compost. If you would like to make your own at home, I can build you a compost bin system and show you how to get the best out of it.

Questions

Mulching questions

When is the best time to mulch?

Winter is ideal, once the beds are cleared and while the soil is damp and not frozen. Spring works well too. I avoid mulching dry or frozen ground.

Will mulch stop all the weeds?

No, but it cuts them right down. A thick layer stops most seedlings, and the few that push through are easy to pull.

What mulch do you use?

It depends on the bed. Compost or leaf mould for borders and veg, bark or woodchip for paths, trees and shrubs. We will talk it through at the site visit.

Can you mulch a large area?

Yes. Larger gardens and grounds are what I lean towards, and the job is planned around the size.

Is mulching good for wildlife?

Yes. A mulch feeds the soil and gives worms and other creatures a better home.

Tell me about your garden

Book a free site visit and we will talk through what it needs.