Mulching plants
Beds and borders can quickly dry out or be taken over by weeds, so use a layer of mulch across the soil surface to prevent this. Many different materials can be used to cover the soil’s surface, including bark chippings, leaf mould, well-rotted farmyard manure or crushed shells.
Mulching has many benefits. It can help to provide nutrients to plants, locks in moisture, forms a barrier against weeds and can help to insulate the roots of vulnerable plants from winter cold. It can also be used for decorating the tops of pots. In the autumn, spread a ring of mulch around newly planted trees, shrubs or herbaceous perennials.
The best time to mulch entire beds or borders is in late-winter or early spring. This will trap in moisture from wet weather and ensure beds don’t dry out quickly in the heat of summer.
Before mulching make sure the site is clear of weeds and the soil is moist. Water if necessary as it’s difficult to wet dry soil through a layer of mulch. Fill up a wheelbarrow with your chosen mulch and spread a 5cm (2in) layer around plants or across the soil with a spade, leaving a little gap around the stems of plants. Rake to a level finish.