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PRINCIPLE 4: MULCH


For Home Landscapes

Mulch helps retain soil moisture, protects plants, and inhibits weed growth. It gives your landscape a neat, uniform appearance and is a great Florida-Friendly choice for hard-to-mow areas and shady spots. Keep a 2- to 3-inch-deep layer of mulch on plant beds. Always leave at least 2 inches of space around tree trunks to prevent rot. Create self-mulching areas under your trees by allowing fallen leaves to stay in place. Be sure to choose sustainably harvested mulch like melaleuca, pine straw or eucalyptus. The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program does not recommend the use of cypress mulch, as it may not be harvested sustainably.

Benefits:

  • Mulch reduces the germination of weeds
  • Mulch helps retain soil moisture
  • Mulch gives your landscape a finished appearance
  • As organic mulch decomposes, it improves soil structure
  • Mulch moderates soil temperatures, keeping the soil cool when the temperature is hot, and warm when the temperature is cold.
Mulch Guidance