How Often Do I Replace My Mulch?

Organic mulch normally lasts 5-6 years. Though, several factors may cause you to have to replace or replenish mulch every 1-2 years. Organic mulch decomposes over time, so it will need to be replaced eventually. A typical mulch may last about five years, but this timeframe can decrease depending on the type of mulch, weather conditions, rainfall, sun exposure, etc. For most …

Common Garden Pests!

No gardener wants to see insects wreaking havoc on a bed full of ripening produce. Luckily, it’s possible to keep unwelcome visitors away. Since some pesticides can hurt the beneficial bugs that actually help your plants, try these easy control measures first before resorting to the strong stuff. 1. Aphids These tiny, pear-shaped critters have long antennae and two tubes projecting rearward from their …

What Should I Do For A Fall Clean-Up?

We’re already finding some stray leaves in landscape beds in Northeast Ohio—a sign that fall is upon us, and so is the need for fall clean-up to prepare your landscape for winter and beyond. Many property owners associate fall clean-up with blowing and collecting leaves, and certainly, that’s a major part of the job. But there’s much more to it. …

Fall Mulching?

When gardeners think of applying fall mulch, their thoughts typically turn to that extra layer that protects plants in cold regions from the ravages of a hard winter. But you can apply fall mulch just like you do in spring, adding enough to refresh what’s broken down. Many landscaping professionals actually practice—and prefer—fall mulching. Fall mulch works like spring mulch …

Five Health Benefits of Gardening!

1. Exposure to vitamin D  Vitamin D increases your calcium levels, which benefits your bones and immune system. A 2014 Italian study, published on the National Institutes of Health website, found that exposure to sunlight helped older adults achieve adequate serum vitamin D levels. So outdoor activities like gardening are a perfect way to get your sunshine while pursuing a …

How To Maintain Mulch!

Generally, mulch needs very little attention to function as it should, and some mulches can last 10 years or longer before needing to be replaced. It’s most important to occasionally check the depth of your mulch and make sure it falls between 2 to 4 inches deep. Nevertheless, mulch color naturally fades over time from sun exposure, and sometimes weeds …

Putting Rock Down Instead of Mulch!

Rocks lend color, texture, and a touch of Zen to your garden, but they’re not right for every area of your yard. Using rocks for mulch is a more permanent solution than using organic materials such as pine straw or wood chips that break down over time. Rocks tend to retain heat, drying out the soil at night and heating …

Stone vs Mulch, or Both!

Mulch isn’t the only choice for accenting landscaping. Many homeowners are choosing decorative stone in addition to or instead of mulch. Stone is a great low-maintenance alternative ground cover material for those who don’t want to spend a ton of time weeding around bushes and flower beds. Additionally, rocks and stones work better around the borders of pools and hot …

The Best Tools For Mulching!

When you head out to mulch a garden, prepare to break a sweat. Although labor-intensive, the garden task is worth the effort! Even though no method — short of hiring muscle — makes mulching less work, streamline your efforts by using the correct tools. Mulch on Wheels The mulch you use can be purchased in bags — an expensive option …

Disposing Of Old Mulch!

If the condition of the old mulch has not decomposed appreciably by the time spring comes, it will still be usable. How do you determine its condition? Well, scoop up some of the mulch in your hands. Has it more or less broken down into fine particles, so that it is no longer clearly distinguishable from dirt? In that case, …