Why Do You Need Mulch in the Spring?
What is Mulch?
Mulch is a term used for any type of protective layer placed on top of the soil in order to provide nutrients, reduce erosion or retain the moisture of the soil. In many cases, mulch is also needed to lessen the weeds that tend to crop up in areas with high moisture content. Spring time is usually the time when mulch is most needed because there aren’t too many falling leaves that can serve as natural mulch to the soil. Therefore, ‘artificial’ or substitute mulch has to be placed in order reap the same benefits.
All types of materials are used as mulch. Oftentimes, the most readily-available material should be used. For instance, if there are plenty of excess straw or excess wood shavings in the area that should be the one most used. These two are categorized as organic residues which serve as only temporary coverings and depending on the bacteria infestation in the area, will quickly decompose. There are also artificial mulches such as rubber from tires or plastic mulch - thin plastic sheets used in commercial plantations.
Most organic mulch can be found in your own household or in a local farm or dairy. Most can be gotten for free but artificial mulch is a different case. Ready-made plastic mulch can be bought at about $30.00 for a 3×15 ft. roll. Furthermore, when you’re hiring professionals to do the mulching for you, there are several costs which need to be considered. First off, the quantity of the mulch needed will have to be calculated. It goes without saying that this will depend on the land area that will be worked on. Next, the labor of the workers should be calculated. Are you hiring on a per-hour basis or on a fixed-rate basis? This will have to be discussed prior to the execution.
Should you decide that you want professionals to do the mulching for you, consider the expertise needed for the job. There are artificial mulches which will have to be applied in a specific manner. Neighborhood kids or typical gardeners will not do. Some companies will provide the mulch for you and apply it as well. This is sometimes the better deal since specific mulches which need specific applications will do better with someone who already knows how to apply it inside and out.
If you’ve decided to do it yourself, research first what the Do’s and Dont’s are for mulching. There are several sites online which could help you how to apply wood mulch, plastic mulch or black mulch. Each one will have a specific application attached to it. Be sure not to put excessive mulch as well. Try a mulch calculator online to help you track how much you’ll need for your particular land area. Lastly, do not pack the mulch too tight. This will prevent much needed water from coming into the limbs and roots.
If you are looking for mulch installation in Hunterdon county, give us a call for a free estimate.





