How to Mulch Flowers
A mulch is a layer of material applied to the soil's surface. It cuts down on weeds and conserves moisture so you water less. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Choose your mulching materials. Grass clippings, wood chips, shredded bark, pine needles, cocoa bean hulls and many other materials all make excellent mulch materials, but vary in cost and have subtle advantages and disadvantages. Check with your local agricultural extension or garden center for advice on the best mulch to use in your area.
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Apply the mulch to your flower bed in late spring after your region's last frost date. Otherwise, you'll prevent the soil from warming up - and you need adequately warmed soil for good plant growth.
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Spread the mulch 1 to 3 inches thick, depending on the size and sturdiness of the flowers. Large, mature perennials can handle 3 inches of mulch, while small, newly planted annuals might get lost.
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Spread mulch right up to the plant but don't push mulch against the base.
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Plan on replacing mulch annually; it breaks down into the soil.
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Tips & Warnings
It's easy to confuse mulching that you do in the spring and mulching you do in the fall (to protect plants over the winter). Mulch applied in the fall often covers part or all of a plant and is usually very airy and light-weight (straw, pine boughs, shredded autumn leaves) so the plant doesn't suffocate.
