What Are the Benefits of Mulch in Winter?
When the weather cools, gardening or landscaping seems so distant. I know winter has arrived, but don’t let that deter you from giving your garden the benefits of mulch.
Is winter the most wonderful time of the year to mulch?
It could be. Here’s why!
Benefits of Winter Mulching
Keeping your plants and trees warm
Roots of plants and trees are conditioned to survive extreme temperatures, but the right winter mulch can help maintain the temperature of the roots. The freeze/thaw cycles put additional stress on the root systems.
Keep mulch around your plants and trees so they can continue to flourish by having a more stable temperature. The best type of mulch is going to depend on various factors, including where you are mulching.
Preventing the growth of weeds
Weeds are a major headache at every of the warmer months, but the reality is that these plants can sprout to life at any point throughout the year.
Left unchecked, weeds can devour your garden, flower beds and the bases of your trees. If you mulch over your winter mulch, it minimizes the opportunity for ugly nutrient-sucking weeds to pop up when Spring arrives.
Holding moisture to support good growing
The most important thing mulch does in the winter is hold onto moisture when dry winter air swoops in. Putting down mulch keeps the soil and roots happy and healthy.
Keeping moisture is vital to developing a successful plant or tree. Mulch prevents evaporation of water, and reveals dew to keep soil damp.
Nurturing ecosystem development to build healthy ground
Believe it or not, good soil boasts critical resources in the form of microbes and earthworms. Mulching helps retain moisture and regulates soil temperature, ensuring a warm, active ecosystem that also fosters nutrient-rich soil for your plants and trees.
Let plants stay dormant until Spring
Random warm temperatures can cause plants to grow even in winter. For example, if the temperature is suddenly down towards freezing, it can harm or kill your plants.
Mulching will ensure a consistent temperature and keep the plants dormant until Spring.
When Should You Mulch For Winter?
A general rule of thumb is to top dress with new mulch after the first hard frost, when temperatures drop below typically 25 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you’re ready to cover your winter mulch needs, give the pros at ASAP Sands Outdoor Services a call today at 505-293-4014. We’ll help you choose the right time to put garden and lawn mulch down, the best type of mulch for your needs and how much you’ll need to buy.
We can also provide tips to help keep your trees and plants in top condition throughout the rigorous winter months.
