Mulch is an important step in landscaping health. It’s one of the most important tasks when it comes to getting your landscape beds ready for the year . In this comprehensive guide to mulching, we will walk you through all the basics, including the best time to lay down mulch and how to spread it properly.

What is Mulch and Why Do You Need It?

You’ve probably heard the term “mulch” one time too many. But exactly what is it?

Mulch is a protective layer usually containing organic matter, such as bark, leaves, and compost, and inorganic elements, such as stone and rubber. It creates an effective barrier on the soil surface.

Mulch has many benefits, including:

• Weed control
• Soil moisture retention
• Soil temperature regulation, especially for providing a warm environment for seeds to germinate
• Visual appeal

Organic vs. Inorganic Mulch

Most mulch is made from either organic or inorganic materials, and each has its pros and cons. The table below provides a brief overview of each one.

Organic vs. Inorganic Mulch: Pros & Cons

	Organic Mulch	Inorganic Mulch
Pros	Provides additional nutrition to the soil as it decomposesCreates a natural look in your yardMore affordable	Much longer lastingComes in various textures and colors for a more modern look.Lower maintenance
Cons	Must be replenished every few yearsWeeds are more likely to break through the barrierNot ideal for extreme slopes	Higher upfront costAbsorbs heat and will dry out the soil underneath faster.Doesn’t decompose.

Common Types of Organic Mulch

Looking for organic mulch but not sure which type to get? Here are some common types of organic mulch and their characteristics:

• Shredded bark: Common option that comes in a variety of textures and colors. Breaks down faster than other options on the list.
• Wood Chips: Needs to be top-dressed every two to three years. Some colors use chemical dyes and can be harmful.
• Leaf: Naturally provided by trees! Highly beneficial for the soil.
• Grass Clipping: Provided naturally by your lawn. Save them after mowing. Grass creates a thin layer and dries out faster.
• Straw: Lightweight and more affordable. Commonly used around fruits and vegetables, but not for curb appeal.

Common Types of Inorganic Mulch

Inorganic mulch can be used as a top-layer with organic mulch, or as a standalone mulch option. Here are five of the most common types of inorganic mulch:

• Gravel, pebbles, river rocks: Various colors and textures, suitable around driveways, pathways, and hardscape.
• Black plastic landscape tarp: Usually used as an underlayer and topped with another type of inorganic mulch. However, we severely recommend against using landscape tarp anywhere at all.
• Landscape fabric: Basically an upgrade from landscape tarp. Also needs a top layer.
• Rubber: Sturdy, stable, retains heat, and weather-proof. Good for outdoor activities, but the zinc contained in the rubber can suppress plant growth.

When is the Best Time to Mulch

Installing mulch in mid-to-late spring will yield the best results for plant growth in the new year. You should also install mulch in the fall to protect roots in the soil from Kansas City’s biting winter.

If you are planting new crops and plants, add mulch immediately after planting, regardless of the season. Depending on the type of mulch you use, you may also need to replenish it every few years to ensure the desired two-to-three-inch depth.

Where Should You Spread the Mulch

Technically speaking, mulch can be installed on top of any exposed soil, depending on your goal. Common places to spread mulch include:

• Gardens and flower beds
• Under trees and around shrubs
• Pathways and driveways
• Landscaping borders

How to Install Mulch In Your Yard

There are some key points to consider when installing mulch in your yard. These include:

• Depth: You should ensure two to three inches of top-layer mulch.
• Dumping: Dump mulch in small piles throughout the installation area using a wheelbarrow.
• Evenness: Use a pitchfork or throw to spread the mulch evenly.
• Edging: You want a sharp edge around the area to hold the mulch firmly.
• Final touch: Use a rake to create the final, smooth surface you desire. 

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Of course, you can choose to handle mulching yourself. However, since mulching is an important step in the ongoing process of landscape maintenance, leaving it to a landscape maintenance company would be far more effective and beneficial.

Expect to pay between $125 to $175 per cubic yard for mulch installation without site preparation. More comprehensive mulching services, including edging, weeding, debris cleanup, and pre-emergent, cost about $1,200 per season, for an average size home.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should you do before mulch?

Prepare the area by removing existing weeds, cleaning up any debris and trash, and adding soil supplements (compost, fertilizer, etc). You can install a separate weed barrier, or let the mulch do its job.

2. What is the 3-3-3 rule for mulch?

The 3-3-3 stands for “three inches, three feet, three inches.” Specifically, it means to install 3 inches of mulch in a ring approximately 3 feet in radius. When installing around bushes and trees, keep mulch three inches away from the base to form a donut shape.

3. Where should you not put mulch?

Avoid “volcano” mulching, which means dumping mulch directly onto tree roots and shrub bases, creating a small mound. Volcanoes can cause trunk rot, girdling roots, and deprive your plants of oxygen. They can also lead to pest infestation.