As spring progresses and the garden begins to burst into life, it is the perfect time to start thinking ahead and preparing your soil for the warmer months. One of the most important steps you can take now is to help your garden retain moisture for the summer season.
A very effective way to achieve this is by applying a mulch to the surface of your soil. At Capel Cottage Garden Centre, we recommend Strulch, an excellent product that provides multiple benefits for both your plants and your soil.
Strulch is a mineralised straw mulch that is applied as a top dressing around plants, borders and beds. Once spread over the soil surface, it forms a protective layer that helps lock moisture into the ground, reducing evaporation and keeping the soil conditions more stable during warmer weather.
Another key benefit of Strulch is its ability to suppress weeds naturally. By covering the soil surface, it limits the amount of light that reaches weed seeds, reducing their ability to germinate and grow. This means less time spent weeding and more time enjoying your garden.
In addition to moisture retention and weed control, Strulch also adds valuable minerals to the soil. These nutrients gradually break down and help improve soil health, ensuring your plants have access to an essential source of natural feeding as they grow through the season.
Gardeners will also appreciate that Strulch helps deter slugs and snails, as these common garden pests tend to avoid moving across its texture. This provides an added level of protection for young plants and fresh spring growth.
One of the most convenient features of Strulch is its long-lasting performance. A single application can remain effective for up to two years, continuing to support your garden by improving soil structure, conserving moisture and maintaining healthier growing conditions.
Applying Strulch in spring is a simple step that can make a significant difference to your garden later in the year. By improving soil health, reducing weeds and conserving moisture now, you are giving your plants the best possible start for a successful summer season.