Avoid making these mulching mistakes

• Don’t mistake compost for mulch. Compost should be combined with your garden soil and is used to improve the soil. Mulch is coarser and should sit on top of the soil. It has a lower nutrient value to the plants than compost. 4 reasons why your garden loves mulch
• If you are mulching under trees, watch closely when it rains. Where rain drips off the outer branches is likely to be where the most tender roots are found, so you should mulch as far out as the outer branches reach.  
• Don’t mulch right up to the trunk of trees - this can lead to rot. Does your tree need to see a doctor?
• Also, don’t mulch right up to your home – it can attract termites – and you do not want them to make contact with your home!
• Avoid using compost as mulch; studies have shown that using fine compost-based products as a mulch can dry your garden out. Compost also absorbs water rather than letting it pass through as mulch does – this means that weeds can pop up more easily.
• Always water the area before laying mulch.
• Avoid spreading it too thinly; on the other hand, don’t overdo it – plant roots need oxygen to survive. A layer 5-8cm thick is ideal. 4 reasons why your garden loves mulch
• If you are using artificially coloured mulch, read the contents to make sure they contain natural dyes. Artificial colorants can leach into the soil and destroy beneficial microbes.
• Mulch that has a chemical smell or that is teeming with insects should be avoided.

 Tips for a low maintenance garden

Things to keep out of your compost bin

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