MIDDLETOWN - Mulching this time of year can make the rest of the season less hectic. If it’s done during the initial weeding it will help to keep weeds down for the rest of the season. Another benefit is it keeps the soil moist, therefore less watering is required. During a hot, dry summer it will keep the plants and you less stressed.

       There are many types of mulches, organic and inorganic. The organics are shredded leaves, wood chips, straw, pine needles, grass and cocoa bean hulls. The inorganic are stones, gravel and brick chips. One advantage of the organic mulch is it will eventually break down and put nutrients back into the soil. Because of this, it needs to be replenished every two to three years.

       The inorganic types have the advantage of not breaking down. It does look nice for a while, but eventually soil and leaves will blow into it. Weeds will start to sprout and they will have to be pulled. Pulling out the weed brings up more dirt. The inorganic starts to look really grimy and it will be necessary to clean it up. This can be a sizeable chore.

       I use organic mulches. I like the look and I grow many perennials that will spread and fill the beds in nicely. If it gets crowded I move them to a different garden or give them to friends.

       The rule of thumb when mulching is about 3 inches deep. The depth can depend on the type of soil, as well. If it is clay and stays damp, use less. If it sandy and tends to dry out fast, use more. Another consideration is the type of mulch; if it is a fine mulch, such as grass, use less. Grass will eventually pack down and prevent water from getting to your plants.

       The space between mulch and the crown of the plant is about 2- 3 inches. If it gets too close, the crown will stay damp and it will promote rot. Care should be taken not to get to close to seedlings, as well. The added dampness can encourage a fungus called â€�"damping off,” which will cause the seedling to suddenly fall over at ground level and die.

       Care should be taken when placing mulch around trees and shrubs also. Don’t use the â€�"volcano method,” where mulch is placed up against the tree trunk basically looking like a volcano. It promotes decay and provides cover for bark nibbling rodents. As with plants the rule of thumb is to stay 2-3 inches from the trunk.

       A method I use in my gardens to save on mulch is placing newspaper down first. Newspaper is bio-degradable and the inks are soy-based. By the end of the season the newspaper usually breaks down completely.

       Remember: May is garden club plant sale month. This is a great way to not only get plants cheap but also get some unusual and fun plants.