Follow the 10 steps below for a beautiful flowerbed:
KILL WEEDS
Spray all weeds with weed killer 1 to 2 weeks prior to mulching. This allows weeds to completely die, making them much easier to pull.
TRIM TREES AND BUSHES
Because of the debris produced, be sure to trim trees and bushes before applying new mulch.
CLEAN OUT MULCH BEDS
Remove all dead leaves, weeds and trimmings.
CULTIVATE
Use a roto-tiller or hand cultivator to loosen any compacted soil or mulch. This allows moisture and air to pass through the mulch easier.
EDGE YOUR BEDS
Landscapes with clean edges enhance the appearance and give it a professional look.
RAKE SMOOTH
Use a stiff rake, such as a mud rake, to smooth all surfaces to be mulched. Otherwise, your mulch will look lumpy.
APPLY A PRE-EMERGENT
This is the time to prevent weed seeds. Apply the pre-emergent before mulching. A second application later further ensures protection from weed seeds. Note: Prevents germination of seeds from weeds.
IT’S TIME TO MULCH
Apply new mulch over the cultivated mulch or soil. Spread evenly to 2-inches thick, more or less, depending on budget and taste. When complete, water to moisturize mulch and settle it into place.
MULCH MAINTENANCE
After a month or so, check the mulch for compaction. If it’s compacted, use a garden claw or cultivator to loosen it. This allows water and air to pass, which helps prevent the growth of fungus and restores appearance.
FUNGUS
If present, remove it and the surrounding mulch. Rake existing mulch to cover the area. Then water thoroughly. Fungus is a sure sign that your mulch has compacted and your beds have dehydrated; cultivation and watering may be necessary.
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