12/04/2025
Intersting information!
In the summer, mulch helps reduce w**ds growing in your garden, but in the winter, mulch acts as insulation for the soil and plant roots (which are more sensitive to cold than stems).
Newly planted trees and shrubs may require a layer of mulch to help survive winter.
As freezing weather approaches, make a plan to mulch any susceptible plants you have after the soil cools off but before it's frozen.
For more information on winter mulching: https://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/426/426-326/426-326.html
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Winter Mulch 101
WHAT: Winter mulches are used primarily to protect shrubs and flowers from severe winter temperatures and frost heaving. They are laid down in late fall and serve as insulation during the winter.
WHEN: Winter mulches should be laid down in early winter, once the soil has cooled but before it has frozen.
Mulch made from organic materials:
Straw makes a good winter mulch or mulch for the vegetable garden. It is inexpensive, suppresses w**ds, conserves moisture, and insulates well. But it's not very attractive, may contain seeds, & extremely flammable.
Purchase “straw” rather than “hay,” as hay contains many w**d seeds. Mulch 6 to 8 inches deep
Bark mulches resist compaction, will not blow away, are very attractive, and are readily available. Some shredded barks, such as cypress, decompose slowly.
Pine needles are attractive, decompose slowly, resist compaction, and are easy to work with. They are often available commercially or are free if you have pine trees on your property.
Leaves that have been shredded with a composting mower are sometimes used as a summer mulch, although they decompose very quickly. Whole leaves can be used instead, but they tend to mat together and block water movement into the soil.