If the prospect of free mulch interests you, look no farther
than your own backyard.

Grass clippings, leaves and pine needles are an excellent
source of mulch. A generous
2- to 3-inch layer of these organic materials can cut your
watering needs by as much as 50
percent. It can trim weed growth drastically, too.

Research shows that when the air is 100 degrees, a 3-inch
layer of mulch can cool the
soil by as much as 25 degrees.

Healthy Root
Growth

This promotes healthy root growth, which allows for a more
efficient uptake of water.
The same layer of mulch will also help protect your plants from
freeze damage in the
winter.

As you place mulch around your planting beds, take care to
pull it slightly away from
main stems. Don’t just pile it on. Organic mulch degrades over
time, adding nutrients to
the soil. So you’ll need to replenish your layer from time to
time to maintain its
thickness.

By using your own free mulch, you’ll improve your soil at no
cost. You’ll also reduce
the amount of waste that ends up in area landfills. This is
truly
a win-win situation.