I apply mulch whenever it is available. You are feeding the microorganisms in the soil and they are always there. Worms will pull the material into the soil so no need to dig it in. Ideally applied regularly so breakdown is an ongoing process. I have heavy clay, after more than 10 years I have seen real changes in the soil.
Do you just lay it on top, or dig it in to break the clay up?
I lay it on top. Works best for me. Saves on time and energy. Prevents disturbing plant roots. Also there is increasing evidence that cultivating the soil disturbs/damages the microorganisms within it. Sometimes, if I've got stuff that breaks down slowly and I just don't want to look at, then I dig a hole and Bury it. Some people dig a trench in autumn, fill it with OM over winter then return the soil and plant runner beans there in spring. There will be a way that works best for you.
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Sometimes, if I've got stuff that breaks down slowly and I just don't want to look at, then I dig a hole and Bury it.
Some people dig a trench in autumn, fill it with OM over winter then return the soil and plant runner beans there in spring.
There will be a way that works best for you.