Clean your flowerbeds of dead plants, leaves, and weeds before mulching. Remove waste to prevent illnesses and pests from overwintering and eliminate weed seed banks.
Create a flowerbed border with a spade or edging tool. This keeps mulch contained and tidying your garden.
Organic possibilities include shredded bark, wood chips, straw, and compost. As they decay, these materials enrich the soil.
Pre-emergent herbicides may help with severe weed problems before mulching. This prevents weed seed growth.
Spread 2-4 inches of mulch evenly. Too little mulch won't control weeds, while too much can suffocate plants and block water infiltration.
In fall and winter, monitor mulch compaction and refill as needed. A compacted mulch can block water and air.