Why Mulch is Like a Cozy Blanket for Your Garden

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If you’ve ever tucked a child, a grandchild, or even your dog under a blanket and thought, There, now you’ll stay warm and safe, then congratulations—you already understand mulch.

Yes, mulch is basically a cozy blanket for your garden. It might not come in fleece or flannel, but it does the same comforting job. And just like people who steal your favorite throw blanket off the couch (looking at you, Grandpa), plants get mighty happy when they’re snuggled in under a nice layer of mulch.

1. Mulch Keeps the Soil Toasty (but Not Too Toasty)

Think of mulch as a temperature regulator. In summer, it’s the cool cotton sheet that keeps the sun from scorching your soil. In winter, it’s the thick quilt that shields roots from frost. Plants don’t complain about the thermostat like family members do, but trust me—they notice.

2. Mulch Saves Water (and Your Back)

Mulch locks in moisture like a camel carrying a canteen. That means less watering, less dragging of hoses, and fewer guilt trips when you forget the garden for a day (or three). Plus, it prevents the soil from drying out faster than my Thanksgiving leftovers.

3. Mulch Smothers Weeds Like a Pro

Nobody likes freeloaders. Mulch helps keep those pesky weeds from sprouting by blocking the sunlight they need. Think of it as a “Do Not Disturb” sign for your soil. You’ll spend less time yanking weeds and more time enjoying your garden—or sipping lemonade while pretending to be busy.

4. Mulch Breaks Down into Plant Food

Over time, organic mulches (like wood chips, leaves, or straw) decompose into rich, healthy soil. It’s like a blanket that not only keeps you warm but eventually turns into cookies. Okay, maybe not cookies—but you get the idea.

Grammy’s Tip: Don’t Overdo It!

Before you get carried away and start piling mulch like you’re building a mountain, remember: 2–4 inches is plenty. More than that, and your plants will feel smothered instead of cozy. Nobody likes to sleep under ten comforters, unless you’re a hibernating bear.

So next time you’re in the garden, grab a bag (or a wheelbarrow) of mulch and tuck your plants in. They’ll be as snug as a bug in a rug—and you’ll be the proud owner of a garden that looks cared for, loved, and downright cozy.

After all, a garden without mulch is like a bed without blankets. And who wants to sleep like that?