Mulching

02What you'll need

• Mulch material — straw, sugar cane, wood chip, or leaf litter depending on the bed
• A rake to spread it evenly
• Enough volume to achieve a decent depth (a thin layer does little)

03Method

• 1. Weed and water the bed thoroughly before mulching.
• 2. Spread mulch 5–10cm deep, keeping it clear of direct contact with stems and trunks.
• 3. Water again after applying — this helps settle the mulch and start the moisture-retention benefit immediately.
• 4. Top up as it breaks down or thins, typically a few times a year.
• 5. Choose mulch type to suit the bed — fine mulch for veggie beds, coarser wood chip for pathways and around trees.

04Troubleshooting

• Mulch causing collar rot — piled against stems or trunks; always leave a small gap around the base.
• Nitrogen drawdown — fresh woody mulch can temporarily tie up nitrogen as it breaks down; use aged mulch around hungry vegetables, or add extra nitrogen.
• Mulch blowing or washing away — too light a material for an exposed site; choose a heavier mulch or water it in well.
• Slugs and snails sheltering in mulch — a minor trade-off; monitor and manage if it becomes a problem.

05Timing & maintenance