Planting lessons 101!

[Dee-O-Gee]

I have 2 yards of midnight black mulch (wood chips) being delivered next Saturday and am not sure if the mulch should be layed first before planting annuals.

This is my first time using mulch to this extent and am looking for any advice as far as an order of process.

Can you lay the mulch first before planting annuals or plant the annuals before laying mulch?

[Winston]

I dont think it matters but I think I would plant then mulch...because if you mulch then plant you will get dirt in the mulch..

I use mulch and I prefer to do it after....

[Dee-O-Gee]

Thank you Winston. Fortunately, I only plant about 8 marigolds amongst my rosebeds and that's were the majority of the mulch will be going.

I usually plant 4 flats of impatiens in my front flower beds so I think for my front, I'll plant the impatiens first then, lay the mulch!

Oh I feel a back ache coming on!

[MyBirdIsEvil]

Wood chip mulch I'd do after. That's mainly for looks and to prevent moisture from evaporating too quickly. If you need to prep your soil there are better options.

[Dee-O-Gee]

I spent the day prepping soil today. Weeded (UGH!) then layed down a bunch of sheep manure and topsoil.

I have a tester kit that I use every year on my rosebeds to check the Nitrogen, Potash and Phosphorus and so far () all nutrients are in balance.

Throughout the summer, I have always take my rotten bananas and bury them in amongst the soil for extra Potassium but not sure if I want to upset the mulch this year.