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Help with mulches

LatimerLatimer Posts: 1,068
in Problem solving
Hi all

In a previous thread it was mentioned that i should get some mulch onto the flower beds. From my understanding that mulch can be compost (homemade or MPC??), bark chips or well rotted manure. 

To further clarify, mulches help by retaining moisture in the soil and blocking light to weed seeds in the soil below, correct? I also saw that weed seeds landing on the mulch have a harder time setting and growing although I'm a little confused about that as i thought something like MPC is a growing medium, why would weed seeds struggle to grow in it?

Finally, what is the easiest and cheapest mulch to buy from garden centers? I've created my own area for making my own compost but won't have anything usable for a while yet! 

Thanks all
I’ve no idea what I’m doing. 

Posts

  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    It largely depends on what plants you're mulching. Compost is great around perennials and shrubs - almost anything really. Yes - you may get some seeds growing, but the fewer the gaps between plants, the less likely it is. You may also want a few seeds form the plants you have, so it's a question of learning to recognise the desirable ones.
    Bark is good for heftier shrubs and trees. Great for things like rhodos and camellias etc, and it sets them off well. 
    Well rotted manure is like compost really, but make sure it is well rotted. It's a bit heftier than most compost, so I find it's important to keep it clear of smaller plants, especially more delicate little perennials, just so that they don't get clogged up. It depends on the depth you lay too though. 
    The biggest benefits of compost and manure are that they break down easily and feed your soil, and they all help retain moisture.
    If you have things like alpines, grit or fine gravel is best, to prevent stems getting waterlogged. 
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • PyraPyra Posts: 152
    Hi London. You might be better off not buying it from a garden centre. It's often cheaper to get it from a specialist, and they usually deliver. I got a massive bulk bag delivered during lockdown because they could do it contactless. You can sometimes buy topsoil from the tip as well, but they probably aren't open right now.

    From my understanding, mulch is there to deter weeds, but tougher plants grown from bulbs or seedlings can grow though it. But if I'm wrong, someone please correct me.

    This might help. 
    https://www.scotbarkuk.com/blog/faq-bark-and-mulching 

    They're a bit far north to deliver to you, but just do a search for places near you. 
  • LatimerLatimer Posts: 1,068
    @Fairygirl thanks! I'm the impatient guy with the bed full of 9cm perenials, if you remember. That really helps though, looks like I'll take @pyra88 advice and get a bulk bag of compost delivered.

    Thank you
    I’ve no idea what I’m doing. 
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    I remember @London_to_Latimer ;)
    Compost is probably the best solution for you. It all helps the soil structure, and means less feeding, and stronger plants in the long run  :)
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • LatimerLatimer Posts: 1,068
    @Fairygirl 👍🏼
    I’ve no idea what I’m doing. 
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