Covering your garden with a thick layer of mulch is one of the healthiest things you can do for your plants. In winter, it’s especially important to provide your plants with these additional nutrients and insulation to ensure they survive the cold weather and thrive the following spring. The landscaping professionals at River Bottom Topsoil in Moscow Mills, MO, understand the vital role mulch plays for your greenery and are lending expertise regarding what you need to know about winter mulching.

3 Important Facts About Mulch in Winter

1. Temperature Drops

During the cold winter months, your plants become vulnerable to frigid temperatures and inclement weather. Mulch acts as a barrier between your plants and the outside air, both protecting them from damage and insulating them to maintain a proper temperature. The amount of mulch you will need to lay down depends on how large your garden is. It’s a good idea to take measurements of your landscape and talk to your mulch delivery company before placing an order.

2. Erosion & Compaction 

In winter, when the temperatures change and heavy rain and snow fall, plants can move and actually become uprooted out of the soil. This can cause soil erosion and compaction. Soil erosion removes the most important, nutrient-dense materials from your plants, making them more vulnerable to freezing during the winter months. Compaction pushes the soil too close together and doesn’t allow your plants to breathe. Adding a thick, healthy layer of mulch eliminates these issues by acting as a barrier and protecting the ground.

3. Warm Spells

Many gardens suffer from warm spells during the winter months, which can cause plants to start blossoming prematurely, then quickly die off without ever reaching maturity come spring. Therefore, mulch not only helps keep your plants insulated and warm during the cold months of the year, but it also helps ensure they stay cool and don’t dry out in case a warm spell hits.

If you need a reliable source of mulch this winter, contact River Bottom Topsoil. For over 20 years, they have been providing their local community with bulk mulch, gravel, and landscape rock to preserve and maintain the beauty of properties and gardens. Learn more about their wide selection of landscape supplies and delivery services online or call (632) 462-5331 to make an appointment today.