How to Mulch a Flower Bed

When spring perennial flowers are in full bloom and summer is around the corner, it's the perfect time to plant annual flowers. With the planting of flowers, it is important to mulch your flower beds. Your home will have more curb appeal with colorful flowers blooming in fresh mulch.

Instructions

1. Decide on the type of mulch to use for your flower bed. There is a variety of mulch to choose from, including cyprus mulch, wood chips, bark, pine needles and cocoa bean hulls.

2. Purchase mulch from a home improvement or landscape store. Typically, mulch is cheaper if you buy it in bulk. Plan to purchase and mulch your flower beds in spring, before the hot weather of summer arrives.

3. Use a gardening shovel or gardening rake to spread mulch evenly, approximately 2 to 4 inches thick, on top of the soil of your flower bed. Don't place mulch directly on top of perennials or spread the mulch too thick. A thick layer of mulch will reduce the soil's oxygen level and may harm the plant's roots.

4. Enjoy the benefits of your freshly mulched flower bed. Mulch regulates the soil's moisture and tempurature, creates a nicely groomed look and decreases the amount of weeds you will need to pull.