“Mulching”

• If you want to work less time in the garden, then mulch your flower beds.
• Mulching creates less weeds; less sunshine will be touching the dirt causing less seeds to germinate.
• Hardwoods make great mulch. Cedar has insect repelling capabilities, though some believe that it can repel your beneficial micro-organisms and insects.
• You do not want non-native mulch.
• Mulch keeps the soil warmer in the cold temperatures and cooler in warmer temperatures.
• You are creating an insulating barrier to preserve moisture.
• The interface between bare soil and your layer of mulch is teaming with beneficial micro-organisms.
• These micro-organisms complete a food web, which will create healthier and more vivacious prolific flora.
• Be sure not to mulch against shrub/tree trunks. You need to leave an air space to help prevent disease and pathogens. 2-6 inches is what is recommended.

Energy Saving tip of the week: Take showers not baths. A 5 minute shower will use about 7.5 gallons of hot water, where as filling a bath tub can use 20 gallons.

For more information, go to Texomalandscapes.com

Happy Gardening