| There
are countless ingredients that can be used as a Mulch - the
important thing is to ensure that some type of mulch is applied,
at least around the stems of plants. Suitable mulches include
Bark, Cocoa shells, Compost, Grass mowings, Hay, Leaf mould,
Leaves, Newspapers, Straw, Wood chips and even Tea Bags. Most
need to be composted or well rotted before use. |
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| Bark
- is particularly useful for preventing weed & grass growth
in flower beds and should be spread in a layer about 8cm thick.
It is available in three grades and each is effective as a mulch
but differs in ornamental appearance and the speed at which it
breaks down in the soil. It can be fairly expensive, so save it
for small or prominent parts of the garden. |
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| Artificial
mulches - These include landscaping fabrics, gravel, pebbles
and polythene and can be used as an alternative to organic
mulches. |
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| Cocoa
shell - perfect for both weed control and holding moisture
in flowerbeds, and a natural by-product of chocolate
manufacturing. It rots down gradually, improving the structure
of the soil. Once the shell has been spread over the borders and
has gets wet, it will forms a crust which binds it together.
This crust will also help prevent slug and snail attack. |
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| Garden
compost - Well made garden compost is an excellent all-round
mulch material, supplement garden bi-products with kitchen waste
and allow to decompose thoroughly, as any garden weeds may
contain seeds |
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| Grass
clippings - can be spread around plants or used to cover the
soil surface. If not required immediately, it can be collected
later and incorporated into the compost heap. If weedkiller has
been used on the lawn, do not use the clippings for at least
three lawn-cuts. |
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| Ground
cover plants - the best mulches and weed suppressants of the
lot. They provide shade for the the ground, preventing water
loss through moisture evaporation and are a most cost-effective
and attractive way of filling gaps between plants. |
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| Manure
- Ensure that manure is well-rotted or buy it from from garden
centres. Fresh manure can be bought cheaply from stables. Manure
provides a rich base of nutrients as it decomposes- lay it 8cm
(3in) thick. If unrottted manure must be used, it should be
applied in autumn. Ensure gloves are worn when handling it.
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