Mulching is one of the most effective things you can do for your garden in summer. It locks in moisture, suppresses weeds, regulates soil temperature, and — depending on the type you choose — can even feed your plants. But with so many options on the market, which mulch is right for you?
Why Mulch in Summer?
July and August can be brutal on garden soil. Without a protective layer, moisture evaporates quickly, weeds take hold, and plant roots are exposed to temperature extremes. A good mulch acts like a blanket for your soil — keeping it cool, moist, and weed-free.
Organic vs. Inorganic Mulch
Organic mulches (straw, bark, compost) break down over time, improving soil structure and feeding plants. Inorganic mulches (gravel, stones) don't break down but are longer-lasting and great for decorative purposes.
Our Top Pick: Strulch Organic Straw Mulch
For most garden beds and borders, we recommend Strulch® Dual Action Organic Straw Mulch. It's a mineralised wheat straw mulch that does two jobs at once: it suppresses weeds and deters slugs — a real bonus for UK gardeners! It's also RHS-endorsed and completely organic.
Apply it 7–10cm deep around plants, keeping it away from stems. A single 9kg bag covers approximately 4–5 square metres. For larger gardens, our bulk pallet options offer excellent value.
Decorative Stone Mulch
For a low-maintenance, long-lasting finish — particularly around Mediterranean plants, in gravel gardens, or on pathways — decorative stone is hard to beat. Our Silver Grey Granite Stones and Cotswold Aggregate are perennial favourites. They don't need replacing each year and look smart throughout all seasons.
How to Apply Mulch
- Water the soil thoroughly first.
- Remove any existing weeds.
- Apply your chosen mulch to a depth of 5–10cm.
- Keep mulch away from plant stems to prevent rot.
- Top up annually (for organic mulches) or as needed.
Mulching is one of those jobs that pays dividends all season long — a couple of hours now saves hours of watering and weeding later.
