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Mulching Made Simple: Protecting & Nourishing Your Garden

Posted on by sunrise-brumar
08
Oct

Why Mulch Matters, How Much to Use, and What Types Are Best

Mulch is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect and nourish your garden. Whether you’re growing flowers, vegetables, or trees, mulching helps your soil stay healthy and your plants thrive. At Bru-Mar Gardens in Annapolis, MD, we’re here to help you understand the benefits and choose the right mulch for your landscape.

Why Mulch Matters

Mulch acts as a natural shield for your soil. It helps:

  • Retain moisture by reducing evaporation.

  • Regulate soil temperature, keeping roots cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

  • Suppress weeds by blocking sunlight from reaching unwanted seeds.

  • Prevent erosion and soil compaction during heavy rain.

  • Add nutrients as organic mulch breaks down over time.

Healthy soil leads to healthy plants, and mulch plays a major role in maintaining that balance.

How Much Mulch to Use

For most garden beds, 2 to 3 inches of mulch is ideal.

  • Too little won’t provide full coverage or weed control.

  • Too much can trap excess moisture and suffocate roots.

Keep mulch an inch away from plant stems and tree trunks to prevent rot and pest problems. In perennial beds, refresh the mulch each spring to maintain its protective layer.

Choosing the Right Mulch

Different gardens benefit from different types of mulch. Here are a few top choices:

  • Shredded Bark or Hardwood: Long-lasting, great for trees and landscape beds.

  • Pine Bark Nuggets: Decorative and ideal for larger landscape areas.

  • Compost or Leaf Mulch: Perfect for vegetable and flower gardens; improves soil quality as it decomposes.

  • Straw: Light, inexpensive, and ideal for protecting young plants and vegetable gardens.

Our team at Bru-Mar Gardens can help you select the best mulch type for your specific plants and growing conditions.

Quick Takeaway

Mulching is more than just a finishing touch—it’s an essential step in keeping your garden healthy, vibrant, and low-maintenance. The right mulch improves soil, reduces watering needs, and gives your beds a clean, polished look.

Local Insight from Bru-Mar Gardens

Here in Zone 7b, mulching in spring and again before winter offers year-round protection. We stock a variety of organic and decorative mulches to suit every garden style and budget.

Visit Bru-Mar Gardens

Find premium mulch, expert advice, and everything you need to grow beautifully at Bru-Mar Gardens—your friendly, family-owned garden center.
Address: 1009 Bay Ridge Road, Annapolis, MD
Phone: 410-990-9898