Table of Contents
Creating a biodegradable mulch for your July plants is an excellent way to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health while being environmentally friendly. This guide will walk you through simple steps to make your own mulch that decomposes naturally, enriching your garden soil over time.
Materials Needed
- Chopped straw or hay
- Grass clippings
- Shredded leaves
- Compost or aged manure
- Cardboard or newspaper (unbleached)
- Water
- Optional: dried herbs or flower petals for added nutrients and scent
Preparing the Mulch
Start by gathering natural, untreated materials. Shred leaves and tear cardboard or newspaper into manageable pieces. Mix these with grass clippings, straw, and compost in a large container or on a tarp. Moisten the mixture lightly with water to help it bind together and encourage decomposition.
Application Tips
Spread a 2-3 inch layer of your homemade mulch around your July plants. Keep the mulch a few inches away from plant stems to prevent rot. Water the mulch thoroughly after application to help it settle and start the decomposition process.
Maintenance and Decomposition
Check your mulch regularly. Add more organic material as it decomposes to maintain a healthy layer. In a few months, the mulch will break down naturally, enriching your soil with nutrients beneficial for your plants.
Benefits of Biodegradable Mulch
- Improves soil fertility
- Reduces plastic waste and environmental impact
- Maintains soil moisture and temperature
- Suppresses weeds naturally
- Supports sustainable gardening practices
By creating and using biodegradable mulch, you support eco-friendly gardening and help your plants thrive during the hot July months. It’s an easy, cost-effective, and environmentally conscious way to care for your garden.