How to Prepare Mulch Beds for Colored Mulch

Colored Mulch made with Heartland® Enriched Colorants doesn't just look great when it's spread. It holds its vivid, eye-catching color year-round. The colorants used are highly resistant to UV fading from exposure to the sun and do not wash off in the elements.

Like regular bark mulch, Color Enriched® Mulch provides these benefits: It allows moisture from rain and sprinkler systems to get to the soil below, while helping to prevent water loss due to evaporation during dry weather. Additionally, Colored Mulch deters weed growth and benefits the plant root systems by helping to maintain a moderate soil temperature. Unlike regular bark mulch, Color Enriched Mulch retains its color for one full season. Be sure to follow these 10 steps when installing your Color Enriched Mulch:

Follow these 10 steps, to maximize the aesthetic value of your colored mulch

1. Kill Weeds
   Spray all weeds with weed killer 1 to 2 weeks prior to mulching. This allows weeds to completely die, making them much easier to pull.
2. Trim Trees and Bushes
   Because of the debris produced, be sure to trim trees and bushes before applying new mulch.
3. Clean Out Mulch Beds
   Remove all dead leaves, weeds and trimmings with a rake.
4. Cultivate
   Use a roto-tiller or hand cultivator to loosen any compacted soil or mulch. This allows moisture and air to pass through the mulch easier.
5. Edge Your Beds
   Landscapes with clean edges enhance the appearance and give it a professional look. Use an edging shovel or power edger to accomplish this. Tip: Use your garden hose as a guide to create nice flowing curves.
6. Rake Smooth
   Use a stiff rake, such as a mud rake, to smooth all surfaces to be mulched. Otherwise, your mulch will look lumpy.
7. Apply a Pre-Emergent
   This is the time to prevent weed seeds. Apply the pre-emergent before mulching. A second application later further ensures protection from weed seeds.
8. It's Time to Mulch
   Using your hands or a rake, apply new mulch over the cultivated mulch or soil. Spread evenly to 2-inches thick, more or less, depending on budget and taste. When complete, water to moisturize mulch and settle it into place.
9. Mulch Maintenance
   After a month or so, check the mulch for compaction. If it's compacted, use a garden claw or cultivator to loosen it. This allows water and air to pass, which helps prevent the growth of fungus and restores appearance.
10. Fungus
    If present, remove it and the surrounding mulch. Rake existing mulch to cover the area. Then water thoroughly. Fungus is a sure sign that your mulch has compacted and your beds have dehydrated; cultivation and watering may be necessary.