Why Mulch Matters: How Fresh Mulch Boosts Your Spring Landscape
A Fresh Start: The Secret Behind Every Thriving Lexington Garden
Spend a few minutes walking through neighborhoods like Ashland Park or Beaumont Centre in early spring, and you’ll notice something: the best-looking landscapes all have one thing in common.
It’s not fancy hardscaping.
It’s not expensive plants.
It’s mulch.
Freshly laid mulch doesn't just make gardens look polished — it transforms the entire health of your soil, your plants, and your landscape’s ability to thrive through Kentucky’s unpredictable weather swings.
If you think of mulch as just a cosmetic upgrade, it’s time to dig deeper (pun intended).
Let’s break down what mulch actually does for your landscape — and why spring is the best time to refresh it.
The Real Power of Mulch: More Than Just a Pretty Face
Moisture Retention
Central Kentucky’s spring weather swings between heavy rains and surprising dry spells. Mulch acts like a sponge, trapping moisture in the soil and dramatically reducing the need for constant watering during dry weeks. Research from the University of Kentucky Horticulture Department shows mulched beds hold up to 70% more moisture compared to bare soil.
Temperature Regulation
When April nights dip below freezing — a real possibility in Lexington through Derby Day — mulch acts like a thermal blanket, keeping soil temperatures steady and protecting root systems from shock.
Weed Suppression
A 2-3 inch mulch layer blocks light from reaching weed seeds. Fewer weeds mean less competition for your flowers, shrubs, and vegetables — and fewer Saturday mornings spent pulling invaders out by hand.
Soil Health Improvement
Organic mulches like shredded hardwood break down over time, feeding soil microbes and enriching the earth naturally. It’s slow-release compost, happening right beneath your feet.
Erosion Control
Areas prone to runoff — especially sloped beds near Tates Creek or Masterson Station — benefit from a mulch barrier that prevents soil washout during heavy Lexington spring storms.
How (and When) to Mulch Right in Lexington
Want to get the most out of your spring mulching project? Follow these quick best practices:
Timing: Mulch after spring clean-up, pruning, and planting — ideally mid to late March before the April growth surge.
Depth: Apply 2–3 inches evenly. More than that can suffocate plant roots and cause rot.
Placement: Keep mulch a few inches away from trunks and stems to prevent disease.
Type: Choose shredded hardwood mulch for most Kentucky landscapes; it offers moisture control, durability, and a classic look.
Pro Tip: If your mulch from last year still looks decent but is thinning, you may only need a light "top dress" rather than a full re-mulch.
Need a hand refreshing your beds this season? Reach out to Green Solutions Landcare — we know the best techniques for keeping Lexington landscapes healthy and gorgeous from spring through fall.