Fall is the perfect season to give your garden the attention it deserves. As cooler weather sets in, refreshing your mulch and ensuring your soil is protected can make a huge difference in how your landscape performs through the coming months. With the right approach, you can set your yard up for success and keep it healthy and beautiful into next year.

1. Assess the Condition of Your Mulch

Before adding anything new, start by checking the state of your existing mulch. Over time, mulch breaks down, compacts, and loses its effectiveness. According to LawnStarter, mulch should be replaced every one to two years to maximize its benefits. By inspecting your garden beds this fall, you can determine whether a top-up will suffice or if a complete replacement is needed to restore insulation, moisture retention, and weed control.

2. Apply Mulch at the Right Depth

How you apply mulch is just as important as how often you replace it. Too much mulch can suffocate plant roots and block proper water flow, while too little won't provide sufficient protection. We have found in our experience that a layer about two to three inches deep is generally considered ideal. This amount keeps weeds down, protects roots from temperature swings, and maintains soil moisture. Always leave space around the base of plants and trees to prevent excess moisture buildup that could lead to rot.

3. Choose the Best Mulch Color for Your Garden

Choosing the right mulch color enhances the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space while complementing your home's design. Popular options include natural brown, vibrant red, and sleek black, each offering unique benefits. Natural mulch provides a classic look that blends seamlessly with greenery, while red mulch adds a bold, eye-catching contrast. Black mulch creates a modern, polished appearance. Selecting the right color depends on your overall landscaping vision and personal preference.

4. Refresh and Maintain Regularly

Mulch isn't something to forget about after applying. Raking it lightly to break up compacted sections allows air and water to penetrate the soil more effectively. Adding fresh mulch when the layer begins to thin helps maintain consistent protection and appearance. By treating mulch as part of your ongoing garden care, you'll enjoy a healthier, more attractive landscape year-round while making the most of your investment in landscaping supplies.

Refreshing your mulch this fall is a simple step with lasting benefits. Whether you're preparing for the colder months ahead or just want to maintain your garden's polished look, the right products make all the difference. For high-quality mulch and other landscaping supplies, turn to New England Landscape Supply in Hampton Falls, NH. With over 25 years of experience, we provide sand, stone, mulch, and many other landscaping supplies. We also offer free estimates, making it easy to plan your next project with confidence.