Mulch is one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve your garden, especially if you have Australian native plants. It keeps the soil moist for longer, helps stop weeds from taking over, and makes garden beds look neat and tidy. But to get the most out of mulch, your garden needs a little preparation first. With the right steps, you can make sure your mulch works well and lasts longer.
If you are looking for quality mulch, MI Organics can supply and deliver it to your home or project site. We also offer mulch delivery across Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Townsend, Nambucca, and Woolgoolga.
Steps to take before putting mulch down
Step one: clear out weeds and unwanted growth
Before adding mulch, it is important to get rid of weeds. If you put mulch on top of weeds, they can still grow through and spread. Use a hand tool or a small garden fork to pull them out from the roots. If there are a lot of weeds, you might need to give the soil a light turn with a hoe or rake.
For bigger spaces or stubborn patches, some gardeners choose to put down a layer of cardboard or newspaper before the mulch. This creates a natural barrier that makes it harder for weeds to grow.
Step two: water the garden well
Mulch helps hold water in the soil, so it makes sense to water your plants and garden beds before adding it. This means your plants start off with good moisture, and the mulch can then lock it in. If the soil is dry, give it a deep soak rather than a light sprinkle. This helps the water reach the roots where it is most needed.
If you have native plants, they may need less water than other types, but giving them a solid drink before mulching still helps them thrive.
Step three: improve your soil
Mulch works best on healthy soil. Before spreading it, take a moment to check if your soil could use a boost. You might add compost or organic matter to improve the texture and nutrients. For native gardens, avoid too much rich fertiliser as it can harm plants that are used to low-nutrient soil.
MI Organics offers organic mulch that pairs well with soil-building practices. When you use a good-quality organic mulch, it slowly breaks down and adds more goodness to your soil over time.
Step four: choose the right mulch for the job
There are many types of mulch. Sugar cane mulch is a popular choice for veggie patches, while hardwood chips or bark can last longer in garden beds. For native gardens, a lighter organic mulch is often better, as it allows water to get through easily and does not make the soil too rich.
If you’ve had tree lopping or tree removals done recently, the mulch created from that process can be a great option too. Fresh mulch from tree cutting and stump grinding not only recycles the material but also adds a natural layer back into your garden. It’s an eco-friendly way to make the most of your arborist services.
If you are not sure which mulch will suit your garden best, MI Organics can guide you and provide options in bulk mulch for larger projects or smaller amounts for home use.
Step five: spread your mulch evenly
When you are ready, spread the mulch in an even layer over your garden bed. Aim for a depth of about five to eight centimetres. Too thin and it will not block weeds or hold much moisture. Too thick and it can stop water from reaching the soil.
Keep the mulch a little away from plant stems and tree trunks. This helps prevent rot and allows air to move around the base of the plants.
Step six: water again after mulching
Once your mulch is down, give it a light water. This helps settle it into place and stops it from blowing away in the wind. It also starts the process of moisture retention right away.
Why preparation matters
A lot of people skip the preparation stage and just throw mulch on top of whatever is there. While this might look fine at first, weeds can still grow, water might not get through properly, and the mulch may break down faster. By weeding, watering, and checking your soil first, you get better results and healthier plants.
Mulch delivery for all garden sizes
If you are in Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Townsend, Nambucca, or Woolgoolga, MI Organics offers mulch delivery direct to your site. This is a great option if you are working on a big garden project or want to order bulk mulch so you have enough for the whole yard. Just contact us today!
Extra tips for native gardens
Native plants often come from areas where the soil is naturally low in nutrients. Using a heavy, rich mulch can sometimes cause problems for them. Stick to natural, organic mulch types that mimic their original environment.
Sugar cane mulch works well for natives as it breaks down slowly and allows water through easily. Pine bark and leaf litter mixes can also suit native gardens because they are light and keep the soil cooler.
Keep up the habit
Mulch does not last forever. It breaks down over time, which is actually good for your soil, but it means you will need to top it up every year or so. Keep an eye on your garden beds, and when the mulch layer looks thin, add more.
If you like to plan ahead, you can order mulch delivery from MI Organics so you are ready to refresh your garden before the hot season begins. Bulk mulch orders are especially handy for covering large areas in one go.
Getting the most out of mulch is about more than just throwing it on the garden. A bit of preparation makes a big difference to how well it works. Pull out weeds, water deeply, check your soil, choose the right type, spread it evenly, and finish with a light water.
With the right start, mulch will keep your garden beds looking good and your plants healthier for longer. If you need quality mulch, MI Organics is here to help with a wide range of organic mulch options, sugar cane mulch, and bulk mulch delivery across Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Townsend, Nambucca, and Woolgoolga.