Your best landscape options
Keeping the home landscape healthy and beautiful is a routine part of yard maintenance. However, there are as many products and ideas available as there are blades of grass. The best approach is always basic and affordable. Mulch isn't a glamorous product, but it's the best friend that a green thumb can have.
Because mulch is organic, it's the perfect material for slowly fertilizing the home lawn. As it breaks down, it releases nutrients that revitalize the soil and encourage growth. With proper application, the risk of burn associated with chemical fertilizers is very low. Mulch keeps soil from becoming too compact, which helps lawns make the most of regular watering. It also slows down soil evaporation and insulates the landscape from summer heat, winter cold and natural erosion. Regular mulching in the spring and fall guarantees a well-fed lawn that can handle temperature and weather extremes all year round.
Mulch protects gardens with the same fertilizing and insulating benefits. Just as it discourages weeds in the lawn, mulch stops the germination of invasive growth in the garden. A deep application in the flower bed smothers most problem weeds, and regular mulching dramatically cuts down the time spent pulling unwanted plants. Weeds are also held at bay by the stronger root production of well-mulched plants. A garden grows better when healthy flowers produce a deeper root system throughout their bed. Trees and shrubs thrive with regular mulching, and its cover protects their trunks and roots from the damage of lawn equipment.
Maintaining an attractive landscape doesn't involve complicated procedures and special formulas. Soil types and climate vary from one region to another, so choosing the right mulch is important. Consulting with a professional can answer any questions and keep the home front looking beautiful all year round.