Minnesota is known for its extremes in temperatures, from the bitter cold days of January to the sweltering sun of July. Because these vast climate differences can be rough on plants, gardens, and landscaping in general, we at The Lawnsmith recommend installing mulch or replenishing mulch that has dried up or blown away. Mulch offers numerous benefits, regardless of the specific type installed. 

Some of these benefits include:

• Prevents evaporation of water from the soil.
• Mulched plants produce deeper and more plentiful roots.
• As long as the mulch itself is weed-free, it prevents the growth of weeds in and around the area where it has been installed.
• Mulch comes in a variety of colors, which allows the homeowner to choose one that is most aesthetically pleasing to him or her.
• Installing mulch helps to prevent soil compaction.
• Since mulch keeps soil warm in winter and cool in summer, it helps to maintain a more consistent soil temperature.
• When mulch is installed, it guards tree trunks and shrubs from damage by lawn care equipment.
• Mulch stops soil from splashing, which in turn prevents erosion and soil-borne diseases.
• Mulch improves the movement and of water into the soil by preventing crusting on the surface.
• When organic mulch is used, it can improve the condition of the soil structure. After the mulch decays, it becomes topsoil and adds nutrients to all of the soil layers.

Spring is the Ideal Time for New Mulching
Late April or early May is a great time to install mulching for the first time or to replenish what has been covered by snow for the past several months. The Lawnsmith offers free estimates for installation services in addition to providing feedback to homeowners on the best type of mulch to buy for their yards.