Mulch

Bare soil is where most plants get their start (including the unwanted “weeds”) and the reason so many gardeners dump in yards of mulch every spring. Those widely spaced plants or intended blank spaces in between plant clumps are invitations for weeds anywhere the soil is left exposed. Consider filling in at least some of those spaces with other, shorter, ground-cover types of plants. These often green up early, bloom in spring, and spread horizontally with often dense ground-level foliage. This can be an effective weed barrier between the plants while delivering additional habitat. 

Bark Mulch Is Okay

Un-dyed, ground bark mulch can be helpful for steep slopes or those spaces with high traffic where nothing else will grow. The fibers in the mulch will mat together to create an effective weed barrier that will stay in place.

Leaf Mulch Is Better

Consider using only leaf mulch or compost for weed management with any new plantings, and especially those lacking a ground cover. Both bark and leaf mulch can minimize weeds by covering the bare soil, and they can both look attractive. However, compost/leaf mulch more readily enriches the soil and is better for various beneficial insects. 

Green Mulch Is Best

Consider filling at least some of those spaces with other, shorter, ground-cover types of plants. These often green up early, bloom in spring, and spread horizontally with often dense ground-level foliage. This can be an effective weed barrier in between the plants while delivering additional habitat. 

Mulch Around Trees

Leaf mulch, aka compost, would be best, but whatever mulch you choose, be sure to keep it VERY thin near the trunk itself. A “volcano” of mulch, piled high against the trunk, is bad; a “donut” where the thickest of the mulch is a good distance from the trunk is best. Landscaping Around a Tree – Plants and Pests with Nicole