The best way gardeners can save themselves time (and the nuisance of constant weeding!), is by applying mulch.
This is true for every type of garden, from vegetable garden to flower bed. Mulched gardens are healthier, more weed free, and more drought-resistant then un-mulched gardens, so you'll spend less time watering, weeding, and fighting pest problems.
There are two basic kinds of mulch: organic and inorganic. Organic mulches include formerly living material such as chopped leaves, straw, grass clippings, compost, wood chips, shredded bark, sawdust, pine needles, and even paper.
Inorganic mulches include gravel, stones, black plastic, and geotextiles (landscape fabrics).
Both types discourage weeds, but organic mulches also improve the soil as they decompose.
Using Organic Mulches
There are two iron clad rules for using organic mulches to combat weeds. First, be sure to lay the mulch down on soil that is already weeded. Second, lay down a thick enough layer to discourage new weeds from coming up through it.
It can take a 8-10cm layer of mulch to completely discourage weeds, although a 4-7cm layer is usually enough in shady spots where weeds aren't as prevalent as they are in full sun.
Spreading organic mulch saves labor and nurtures plants by:
Both garden soils and plants benefit from mulch. While you can mulch at any time of the year, doing so in autumn makes a lot of sense. Here are some tips to make sure your plants thrive after an application of organic mulch!
Once some of this water subsides, you might be in the market for some pavers or steppers to create walkways, outdoor living zones or definition around your home.
We have a new range of beautiful, natural stone steppers and pavers in the yard that can provide a practical and timeless solution where you want to create walkways, or create definition or hard outdoor living areas around your garden.
Click HERE for Cubic Metres Calculator!
VOLUME CALCULATOR: Calculate m3 required for pebbles, sands, mulches etc here ...
AREA CALCULATOR: Calculate m2 required for pavers, turf, etc here ...