As the gardening season winds down, it’s easy to overlook one last important task: mulching. Applying mulch in autumn protects your garden through winter and sets the stage for healthier growth in spring. Here’s why it’s worth doing now:

1. Protects Against Winter Damage: Mulch insulates the soil and helps regulate temperature. This protects plant roots from freeze-thaw cycles and prevents frost heaving.

2. Conserves Soil Moisture: Even in cooler months, plants need moisture. Mulch reduces evaporation and keeps soil hydrated longer, especially during dry autumn spells.

3. Suppresses Weeds: A layer of mulch blocks light from reaching weed seeds. Mulching in Autumn means fewer weeds to battle in early spring.

4. Improves Soil Health: Organic mulch breaks down over time, enriching the soil with nutrients and improving its structure.

5. Makes Use of Free Materials:

Fallen leaves, pine needles, and grass clippings can be repurposed as mulch—saving money and reducing garden waste.