Mulch is not required but it is often beneficial. Three inches is plenty. Wait until the ground cools down. Contrary to popular notions, mulching over bulbs is meant to retain soil moisture and keep the ground temperatures cool and stable, not to serve as a "warm winter blanket" (except in the very coldest climates). Mulch just before the ground freezes.

Approximately 2Ó-3Ó of mulch should be applied to garden beds, but remember to taper the mulch back to ground level as you get near the trunk of the plant.

Mulch should be applied to a depth of 100mm. This will provide an effective weed­suppressing layer and maximize moisture retention. Should customers wish to apply less than 100mm we recommend using weedmat prior to mulching. Weedmat is porous so that air and water can move into and out of the soil while still managing to hinder weed growth.

Spread the mulch in an even layer up to but not touching the base of the plant. Piling mulch around the stalk or trunk will rot the plants' base, possibly killing the plant. A pitchfork is a good investment for spreading all but the finest textured mulch, while a straight metal rake is good for mid-season fluffing to restore color.

No. Apply mulch when necessary to maintain a 2 to 3 inch layer. Any thicker layer of mulch may cause problems. Raking the mulch will give it a new look.

Yes. However, wait until the soil has a chance to warm up. Maintaining a 2 to 3 inch layer of mulch is all that is necessary.

We tested 27 mulches in the field, and found that some supported more artillery fungus than others. In this study, resistant mulch was the large pine bark nuggets. The large bark nuggets stay hard and dry, conditions that the artillery fungus does not like. Cypress mulch also performed well, as it probably contains some anti-fungal, anti-decay chemical(s).

Interestingly, homeowners that put down new mulch each year generally have less of the artillery fungus problem. But, we have not confirmed this practice. But it does seem to work. Don't miss a year!

You really need to ask this question to a compost expert, but most good mulch today is composted to some degree. However, I would insist on a thoroughly composted mulch.

Granular fertilizers are more persistent in the soil; they are absorbed more slowly and last longer. They can be incorporated into the soil at planting or they can also be broadcast onto the surface of the soil of existing plants. Super phosphate, frequently lacking in western soils, is essential for plentiful flowers and strong root growth. Grow Power is an excellent all-purpose fertilizer especially for lawns. It should be worked into the soil when planting turf and ornamental grasses.

Free mulch for residential use is available at the Solid Waste Complex, 1701 N. Hercules Ave., and Moccasin Lake Nature Park, 2750 Park Trail Ln. Please bring a shovel and containers. For hours, please call (727) 562-4920. For full information on free mulch in Pinellas County, call the hotline at (727) 464-7500. Mulch at collection centers is for residential use only. For pick up of bulk quantities or commercial use, please call (727) 464-7500. Back to Top

In most cases, no, you should not cover your plants for the wintertime. A protective mulch (salt marsh hay, pine boughs, straw, etc.) can be applied after the ground is frozen, and removed with the first thaw. Here in the Midwest that is very hard to do - since we typically have a December thaw, a January thaw, and Feb. and March thaws. The biggest killer of perennials is having the crown of the plant smother (or rot) in the late winter/ early spring.

Mulch is a product that is placed on top of the soil for protection of the plants, to retain moisture, or for beautification. It can range from fresh organic material to well composted organic material.

I have heard that the Travis County Room is at a depth of 54 feet below the surface. I have also heard numbers that the Edwards Aquifer is 254 feet below the surface. Since caves do not form below the water level of the Edwards Aquifer, that is approximately the maximum depth of caves in Austin.

You can purchase a steamer from a home improvement store or grocery. They generally come with several attachments that can be used thru-out your home and vehicle. The machine will shoot hot steam through the foam/batting of the furniture. You can also use it to steam around doors and windows and floors. If you use DE, please do not use the steamer. You will create a mess!