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Steps
1
Clear the area by pulling existing weeds out by the roots using a garden spade to ensure they do not grow back under the mulch.
2
Create a clean edge around the bed using a manual edger or shovel to establish a smooth continuous line that keeps mulch off the grass.
Tip: Do not toss excavated soil into the bed, as this can promote grass growth within the mulch.
3
Remove old mulch from the surface until you reach the dark brown soil and roots, then transfer the waste to a compost pile.
4
If using the sheet mulching technique for weed suppression, lay down a layer of overlapping undyed cardboard or newspaper and soak it with water.
5
Transport mulch via wheelbarrow and distribute it in small piles across the bed rather than dumping it in one large heap to avoid crushing the bed edges.
6
Use a rake to spread the mulch into an even layer, typically 2 to 4 inches deep for wood chips or bark, and 1 to 2 inches for finer materials like compost.
7
Ensure a gap of at least 1 to 6 inches is left around the base of plant stems, trunks, and crowns to prevent rot and pest infestations.
Tip: Avoid 'volcano mulching' where mulch is piled high against a tree trunk, as this can strangle the tree.
8
Lightly water organic mulch with a hose to prevent it from blowing away and to provide necessary moisture to the soil.
Pro Tips
Apply organic mulch in early summer after soil has warmed, or in late fall to protect roots from freezing.
To calculate needs: multiply square footage by the desired depth (e.g., 3 inches = 0.25 feet) to get total cubic feet.