Apply Organic Mulch

Spread a 3-4 inch layer of organic mulch (straw, shredded leaves, or wood chips) around garden plants, keeping it 2 inches away from stems to prevent rot. Mulch blocks sunlight from reaching the soil surface, stopping weed seed germination before it starts.

Why It Works

A 3-4 inch mulch layer blocks up to 90% of light reaching the soil, which most weed seeds need to germinate. As organic mulch decomposes over one growing season, it adds nutrients and improves soil structure, creating a dual benefit of weed suppression and soil building.

Tips

• Replenish mulch once or twice per season as it breaks down to maintain the 3-4 inch depth
• Use straw (not hay, which contains weed seeds) for vegetable gardens
• Apply mulch after soil has warmed in spring to avoid slowing crop growth