Why mulch matters, how much to use, and what types are best.

Why Mulch Matters

Mulch is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect and nourish your garden. A good layer of mulch helps your soil retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate temperature through the changing seasons. In fall, mulch also shields plant roots from frost and helps prevent soil erosion caused by rain and wind.

At Nunan’s Florist & Garden Center, we see mulch as the unsung hero of a healthy garden—working quietly year-round to keep plants thriving.

How Much Mulch to Use

A general rule of thumb is to spread mulch about 2–3 inches deep around trees, shrubs, and flower beds. Too little won’t provide enough insulation or weed control, while too much can suffocate plant roots. For best results, keep mulch a few inches away from plant stems and tree trunks to allow airflow and prevent rot.

If you’re refreshing existing beds, a light top-dressing of one inch may be all you need to restore color and function.

Choosing the Right Mulch

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to mulch. Each type offers different benefits:

• Natural Bark Mulch: Perfect for flower beds and foundation plantings; it breaks down slowly and enriches soil over time.

• Cedar or Hemlock Mulch: Adds rich color and a pleasant scent, with natural pest resistance.

• Pine Bark Nuggets: Great for larger areas or under trees, where they resist compaction and last longer.

• Compost or Leaf Mulch: Ideal for vegetable gardens, feeding the soil with organic nutrients.

Our team at Nunan’s can help you select the best mulch for your specific garden needs—whether you’re enhancing curb appeal, improving soil health, or simply keeping weeds under control.

Local Convenience, Expert Advice

Nunan’s makes it easy to refresh your landscape with bulk mulch available for pickup or convenient local delivery. Whether you need a few yards for flower beds or a full truckload for a large project, our team can help you calculate the right amount and schedule a delivery that fits your timeline.

FAQ

Q: When’s the best time to apply mulch?
A: Spring and fall are ideal times. In fall, mulch insulates roots and prevents soil from drying out over winter.

Q: How often should I replace my mulch?
A: Refresh mulch once a year to maintain its color and effectiveness. In high-traffic or sunny areas, you may need to top off mid-season.

Q: Can I mulch around vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Organic mulches like straw, compost, or shredded leaves help maintain moisture and add nutrients to your vegetable beds.

Q: Do you deliver mulch locally?
A: Yes! Nunan’s offers bulk mulch for pickup or convenient local delivery throughout the North Shore, making it easy to keep your garden looking its best.

Quick Takeaway

Mulch does more than make your garden look neat—it’s one of the best things you can do for long-term plant health. With the right type, depth, and timing, you’ll protect your soil, reduce weeds, and nourish your garden all season long.