As the relentless heat of summer bears down on our garden, we find ourselves in an old battle to keep our green space lush and thriving. What if you had a secret weapon to help you win the battle with the elements, a simple but powerful ally? Prepare to be amazed when we reveal the one task that professional gardeners swear by to transition from summer to autumn: mulching.
What is so revolutionary about a mulch layer? You may be thinking “I’ve used mulch before, it’s just bark chip, right?” There’s more than meets the eyes to this humble material. Michael Clarke, a horticulturist with more than 15 years’ experience, says that August is the unsung star of mulching season.
Mulching is not just a spring tradition, as many people believe. Clarke says that August is a great time to add an extra layer of compost. It’s an proactive measure that protects our plants from the lingering heat of summer and sets the stage to a healthy transition in the cooler months ahead.
How does mulch protect against the sun? By acting as a blanket to retain soil moisture, mulch protects the roots from scorching temperatures. Mulch is a lifeline to your plants in the summer heat, ensuring that they receive the nutrients and hydration they need to thrive.
The organic mulches such as pine needles or wood chips are a slow-release nutrient explosion for your soil. As it decomposes it enriches your soil with essential elements and prepares your plants for winter’s nutrient depletion.
Don’t overlook the cosmetic benefits that mulching can provide. Clarke says that a mulched garden has a polished and well-maintained appearance. It’s the Yuan Yi equivalent to a power suit, giving your garden an instantly professional and pulled-together appearance. Mulch is also a natural weed-deterrent, so your garden will remain clean and tidy as the seasons change.
Mulching is the secret handshake of the gardening elite. It’s a subtle way to show that you are in the know and that you speak the language of plants and understand the rhythm of soil. By adopting this practice, your align yourself with a long tradition of gardeners that value sustainability, efficiency and results above all else.
As we approach the fall season, let’s make sure that we are not caught off-guard by the changing of the seasons. Subscribe to Apartment Therapy today and be one of the first to know about the latest trends. Learn from the experts and gain insight into the subtle art and science of gardening. Transform your outdoor spaces to year-round havens that are full of beauty and tranquility.
Mulching in August is not just a chore, it’s a statement. It’s a declaration that you care for your garden in every season and that you know the connection between growth and care. It’s time to embrace these powerful practices and watch your garden flourish.
Mulch can be a powerful tool in your garden. A garden that is well-mulched will be loved. A garden that thrives will also improve your connection with the natural world.