Are you wondering if it’s possible to put mulch over ground cover?
You’re not alone. Many gardeners are unsure whether mulch will hinder the growth of their ground cover or help it thrive.
The good news is that, in most cases, mulch can actually benefit your ground cover by conserving moisture and suppressing weeds.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind when using mulch with ground cover.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of using mulch with ground cover and provide tips on how to use it effectively without hindering your plants’ growth.
So, let’s dive in!
Can You Put Mulch Over Ground Cover
The short answer is yes, you can put mulch over ground cover. In fact, using mulch can be a great way to help your ground cover thrive.
Mulch can help conserve moisture in the soil, which is especially important for ground cover plants that have shallow roots. It can also help suppress weeds, which can compete with your ground cover for nutrients and water.
However, it’s important to use mulch correctly to avoid hindering your ground cover’s growth.
Benefits Of Using Mulch With Ground Cover
Using mulch with ground cover can provide several benefits for your garden. Here are some of the advantages of using mulch with ground cover:
1. Weed Control: Mulch is an excellent weed suppressant. It inhibits the germination of weed seeds and prevents them from growing by blocking sunlight. This is especially important when you are trying to establish a new ground cover. Mulch can help prevent weeds from competing with your ground cover for nutrients and water.
2. Moisture Retention: Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil, which is essential for the growth of ground cover plants. Ground covers often have shallow roots, and they need consistent moisture to thrive. Mulch can help keep the soil moist and reduce the need for frequent watering.
3. Soil Protection: Mulch helps to protect the soil from erosion caused by rain and wind. It also helps to insulate the soil from extreme temperatures, keeping it cool in summer and warm in winter.
4. Nutrient Enrichment: Organic mulches like shredded leaves or bark will decompose over time, adding nutrients back into the soil. This can help to improve soil fertility and promote healthy plant growth.
5. Aesthetics: Mulch can enhance the appearance of your garden by providing a neat and tidy appearance. It comes in a variety of colors and textures, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your garden’s style.
When using mulch with ground cover, it’s important to apply it correctly. Make sure to use a layer that is no more than 1-2 inches thick, as a thicker layer can hinder the growth of your ground cover. Also, be careful not to cover any existing ground cover plants with mulch as this can suffocate them.
Types Of Mulch To Use With Ground Cover
When choosing a mulch to use with ground cover, it’s important to consider the specific needs of your plants. Here are some types of mulch that work well with ground cover:
1. Organic Mulch: Organic mulches like shredded leaves or bark, pine needles, or composted straw can be a great option for ground cover. They will break down over time, adding nutrients to the soil and improving its overall health.
2. Stone or Gravel: Stone is the longest-lasting mulch option, making it a great choice for ground cover. It will not break down or decompose, and it can help retain heat in the soil during cooler months.
3. Landscape Fabric: Landscape fabric is a synthetic material that is designed to block weeds while allowing water and air to penetrate the soil. It can be a good option for ground cover, as it will not break down over time like organic mulches.
4. Rubber Mulch: Rubber mulch is another long-lasting option that can help retain moisture in the soil. It is made from recycled tires and can be a good choice for ground cover in areas where water conservation is important.
When using mulch with ground cover, it’s important to avoid piling it too high around the base of your plants, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. Instead, spread the mulch out evenly over the soil surface, leaving a small gap around each plant to allow for air circulation. With the right mulch and proper application techniques, you can help your ground cover thrive and look beautiful all season long.
How To Apply Mulch To Ground Cover
Here are five steps to properly apply mulch to ground cover:
1. Prepare the area: Before applying mulch, make sure the area is free of any debris, weeds, or old mulch. You may also want to freshen up the edging along your beds to create a clean, defined line between your bed and lawn.
2. Water the area: If your area hasn’t experienced recent rain, wet down the soil to ensure it’s moist. This will help the mulch seal in the moisture and provide a better environment for your ground cover.
3. Apply mulch: Shovel mulch from your wheelbarrow or shake mulch from your bag into small piles. Then use your hands to spread the mulch around the base of your ground cover plants. Be careful not to cover the base of the plant as this can cause rot.
4. Spread evenly: Spread the mulch evenly to a depth of two to four inches thick. If you apply too little, weeds can push through, but if you apply too much, it can prevent water from reaching the soil.
5. Water after mulching: After applying the mulch, water the area again to help settle it into place.
By following these steps, you can properly apply mulch over your ground cover and help create an environment where it can thrive. Remember to use caution when applying mulch and not to cover the base of your plants to avoid any potential damage.
Precautions To Take When Using Mulch With Ground Cover
Here are some precautions to take when using mulch with ground cover:
1. Use the right type of mulch: When choosing a mulch for your ground cover, make sure to select one that is appropriate for the plants you are growing. For example, shredded leaf mulch or aged bark mulch are good choices for ground covers that spread by stolons, while self-sowers like asters or partridge pea may not benefit from mulch.
2. Don’t apply too much: It’s important not to apply too much mulch, as this can hinder the growth of your ground cover. A layer of 1-2 inches is sufficient, and be sure not to cover the base of the plant.
3. Pull back the mulch: When planting your ground cover, pull the mulch aside so you can plant in the soil. Then, pull the mulch back over the soil, being careful not to cover the base of the plant.
4. Monitor moisture levels: While mulch can help conserve moisture in the soil, it’s important to monitor moisture levels and make sure your ground cover is getting enough water. If the soil becomes too dry, your plants may struggle to grow.
5. Consider spacing: Placing your ground cover plants close together (12 inches or less) can help prevent weeds from growing and allow your plants to knit together faster.
By following these precautions, you can successfully use mulch with your ground cover and help your plants thrive.
Tips For Maintaining Ground Cover With Mulch
Here are some tips for maintaining ground cover with mulch:
1. Use the Right Type of Mulch: Choose a mulch that is appropriate for your ground cover plants. Aged or shredded leaf mulch or aged bark mulch are good options. Avoid using fresh wood chips or sawdust, which can rob the soil of nitrogen and harm your plants.
2. Apply Mulch Correctly: Spread a layer of mulch that is no more than 2 to 4 inches thick over the soil, making sure to keep it a few inches away from plant stems and tree trunks to prevent plant damage. If needed, add new mulch to keep the layer at the right thickness as the old mulch decomposes.
3. Turn the Mulch: Mix and turn your mulch a couple of times each season to break up clustered pieces and prevent it from forming a compacted layer on top of the soil. Use a rake or turn it over with your hands.
4. Don’t Cover the Base of Plants: Make sure not to cover the base of your ground cover plants with mulch, as this can cause them to rot or suffocate.
5. Be Careful with Self-Sowers: If you have ground cover plants that spread by seed, be aware that mulch can discourage both weed seeds and wildflower seeds from sprouting. Go easy on the mulch in these areas.
6. Water Regularly: Most ground covers require regular watering when young but may do very well with only occasional irrigation or rainfall once they are mature and established. Be sure to water your plants as needed to keep them healthy.
By following these tips, you can use mulch to help maintain your ground cover plants and keep them healthy and thriving.
