Why you should still mulch in December
- Protects from freeze-thaw cycles: Mulch moderates soil temperature, preventing the expansion and contraction of the soil that can heave plants out of the ground.
- Insulates roots: It acts as a protective blanket, insulating plant roots from extreme cold and temperature fluctuations.
- Conserves moisture: Mulch helps the soil retain moisture from fall rains, which is important for microbial activity and plant health over winter.
- Reduces soil erosion: A layer of mulch minimizes the risk of erosion from heavy rains or melting snow.
How to mulch in December
- Wait for hard frost: Apply mulch after the first hard frost, when the ground has started to cool down and harden.
- Choose the right material: Use organic materials like shredded leaves, straw, pine needles, or wood chips.
- Apply correctly: Spread a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch around trees, shrubs, and perennials.
- Do not pile against stems: Keep the mulch from piling directly against the trunk or stems of plants to prevent rot and disease.
