There are basically  two types of mulch - organic mulches which include bark, wood chips, leaves, lawn clippings, straw, paper and other organic by products; or inorganic mulches that include crushed stone, asphalt and concrete.

Mulch helps conserve moisture in the soil, in turn reducing soil erosion.  Fertility is usually increased and weed competition is minimised. 

The structure and compaction of soil is also improved by adding mulch and microbial activity is generally increased. 

As wonderful as mulch can be, just take care not to end up with insufficient water and if you have put down weed mat or polythene lining, take care no air is trapped underneath it.

Nitrogen deficiency can occur especially in wood chips and bark so you may find it  necessary to add extra nitrogen to the soil.

Some diseases and pests really enjoy mulch especially if there is excessive moisture. Keep an eye open for slugs!

Fresh lawn clippings, eucalyptus wood chips and leaves, redwood and cedar wood chips, douglas fir, larch and spruce bark can be toxic when used for mulching.

The substances that increase toxicity can often  be counteracted simply by correct composting.

Mulching is very important to woody plants as it not only reduces maintenance, but produces a healthy plant.

Mulching can also slow or even stop damage to bark and roots caused by  lawn mowers and string trimmers.

An added bonus is that mulching often means you don’t have to use herbicides to control weeds as often if at all.

 While mulching may seem like a bit of a back breaker at the time - if done correctly it will soon be simple part of your regular garden maintenance and reward you with stunning plants.