Courtesy of Sacramento Suburban Water District
This spring, when you’re at the lawn and garden store, remember to pick up a few bags of mulch. Spread over the surface of soil at least three inches deep, mulch helps suppress weed growth, retain moisture in the soil and helps to keep the soil cool during hot summer weather. Mulches enhance the look of your garden too.
From wood chips, grass clipping, bark or pine needles, there are many different types of mulch to choose from. Mulch provides valuable nutrients to the soil that may encourage the growth of worms and other organisms that are useful to plants.
To ensure your gardens and walkways are benefiting from mulch, be sure to apply a new layer every few years. For more water efficient ideas, go to Sacramento Suburban Water District’s website at sswd.org and check out “Water Education.”