8 Benefits of Using Wood Chip Mulch
"Remember that children, marriages, and flower gardens reflect the kind of care they get." So said the late American author H. Jackson Brown, Jr, reminding us that we must put care into our gardens to enjoy the beauty that they give in return.
One way to show your garden some love is by using wood chip mulch. Wood chips are organic matter that breaks down over time, adding valuable nutrients to the soil as they do. They also help to suppress weeds and keep the soil moist - two very important factors in having a healthy garden!
Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of using wood chip mulch.
What Is Wood Chip Mulch?
Wood chip mulch is made from, you guessed it, wood chips! These can be sourced from a variety of places, including tree service companies, sawmills, and even your own backyard if you have a wood chipper. The key is to find untreated wood chips - you don't want any chemicals leaching into your soil.
Why Use Wood Chip Mulch?
Wood chips add a handsome finished look to your planting beds. Here are some more benefits of wood chip mulch in your garden from Maguire Tree Care.
It Improves the Health of Your Plants
Wood chip mulch helps to create an ideal environment for plant roots by maintaining moisture levels and moderating soil temperatures. This results in healthier plants that are better able to resist disease and pests.
It Reduces the Need for Watering
Because wood chip mulch helps to hold in moisture, it can reduce the frequency with which you need to water your plants. This is especially beneficial in hot, dry weather.
It Suppresses Weeds
Weeds compete with your plants for water and nutrients, so it's important to keep them under control. Wood chip mulch can help to do this by blocking out light and preventing weed seeds from germinating.
It Improves the Quality of Your Soil
As wood chips break down, they release nutrients that enrich the soil, making it more fertile and better able to support healthy plant growth.
How to Use Wood Chip Mulch
Plan the areas that you will be mulching to determine how much mulch you will need. You can mulch around trees and mulch in garden beds around your flowers or food plants.
Once you have your mulch, spread a layer of wood chips that is 2-4 inches deep. Be sure to leave room around the base of your plants for air and water to reach the roots.
Refresh your mulch every few years as it breaks down. Composted wood chips are an excellent choice for vegetable gardens.
Make Your Own Wood Chip Mulch
It is a good idea to prune trees in your yard every so often to ensure their health and promote new growth. When you do, don't throw away the branches - turn them into wood chip mulch!
If you need assistance with tree pruning or branch removal, our team at Maguire Tree Care is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our tree pruning services.