We use mulch in our gardens to help retain soil moisture, decrease weeds, reduce erosion, help cool plant roots, and add organic matter to improve and feed the soil. But did you know that mulch can be used to help winterize your garden?
Winter mulch serves two purposes. First, it keeps soil temperature from fluctuating during a winter warm spell. A more even soil temperature reduces the chances of plants being pushed out of the soil by alternate cycles of heat and cold ( a process known as heaving).
Plants could also be harmed or killed if they start growing when soil temperature warms during a period of warmer weather. A layer of mulch will keep the soil frozen even during those winter warm spells.
The second purpose of winter mulch is to keep very cold temperatures from harming plants, especially those that are marginally hardy in our area. A layer of mulch can mean the difference between life and death for some plants.
Caution: wait for the ground to freeze and temperatures to remain consistently below freezing before applying winter mulch. If it’s applied too early, the soil will stay warm and moist too long—and that could result in disease.
And you thought you were finished with gardening chores after raking and shredding all those leaves. Before you settle down for a long winter's nap, give your plants a cozy mulch blanket!
Do you have a gardening question? In Delaware County, call our Master Gardeners hortline at 610-690-2671 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 AM-12 NOON.
UPCOMING MASTER GARDENERS EVENTS
December 8, 2007: Wreath Making
Create a one-of-a-kind holiday wreath using fresh greens. This is a hands-on workshop. Bring pruners and rubber gloves. All other materials are provided. Sign up early! This is one of our most popular workshops. Cost: $15
Registration required for all events. Please call 610-690-2655 for more information or visit our website
