We talked about mulch before and how important it is for maintaining your landscape. For a quick recap, mulching is the process of applying a layer of organic material to the soil. It helps to provide nutrients and preserve moisture. It also helps to protect your plant roots from frost and helps prevent weed growth.
This process isn't only a one-season task. Applying mulch on a regular basis is recommended. It benefits trees, shrubs, and plant beds. Since this is an organic material, it will break down over time and will eventually become plant food.
Can You Re-use Old Mulch?
If you have to ask, there is no need to remove it whether you are planting new plants or placing new mulch. It gradually breaks down and becomes a soil amendment. This helps improve the nature of the soil. It adds beneficial nutrients and other organic matter to the soil.
If the mulch has not yet broken down and you have to move it to a different location, feel free to do so. However, removing it every year only creates unnecessary work and needless expense.
There are times when it binds together and creates a mat-shredded hardwood. This can sometimes be a problem since it can block moisture from reaching the plant's roots. Removing it isn’t necessary though. Instead, fluff it with a rake to break it down and add a new layer above it if needed.
Don’t worry about old mulch. If you need to add a new one, just add it on top of the old mulch.
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