How Often to Replace Mulch in Your Flower Beds

Mulch has a ton of benefits but it can be difficult to know how often to replace mulch in your flower beds. Did you know that, according to the University of California, certain mulch types can reduce water evaporation by up to 70%? Elite Landscape Solutions has years of experience working on landscapes in Wichita and the surrounding areas. We’re here to explain how often to replace mulch in your flower beds and why mulch is important.

Factors Affecting Mulch Replacement Frequency

Mulch Type

There are two basic types of mulch to choose from: organic and inorganic. In general, you’ll have to replace organic mulch more often than inorganic; however, organic mulch offers more nutrients and better long term plant health benefits. Choosing between organic and inorganic ultimately comes down to frequency and desired level of care.

Organic Mulch

Organic mulch is anything made from dead plant matter, from tree bark to compost and fallen leaves. Since organic mulch is made from plant fibers, it tends to decompose a lot faster than inorganic mulch. It usually takes around 4-6 years for organic mulch to completely decompose. So, it’s best to replace and add new organic mulch every 1-2 years to keep it fresh and deep enough to add nutrients to the soil.

Inorganic Mulch

Inorganic mulch, or synthetic mulch, is made from materials like stones, gravel and recycled rubber. One of the biggest benefits of organic mulch is its lifespan and cost savings over time. Since the materials don’t decompose like organic mulch, you’ll only need to replace inorganic mulch every 3-5 years. However, you may miss out on some of the nutrient benefits organic mulch offers.

Climate and Weather

Always keep in mind Wichita’s unique weather, as this is one of the main reasons you’ll need to replace mulch. Hot, humid weather, like summers in Wichita, tend to speed up the decomposition of organic mulches. According to the University of Nebraska, root function stops when soil temperatures reach 85°F and higher. As a result, you’ll need to replace mulch more frequently in climates with a higher overall heat index and humidity. Additionally heavy rainfall, severe storms and high winds can simply wash away and scatter finer pieces of mulch. According to the National Weather Service, the average wind speed in Wichita is 11.5 mph. Which is enough to lift mulch and toss it across your lawn. 

Plant Type and Location

From colorful garden beds to sprawling vegetable patches, each area of your landscape has unique mulch needs. Flower beds benefit from a 2-4 inch layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Vegetable gardens, on the other hand, typically need a shallower layer, around 1-3 inches deep, to ensure good air circulation for healthy root development. 

Remember, sun exposure also plays a role in mulch longevity. Mulch in direct sunlight tends to decompose or fade faster, especially organic materials. If you notice your organic mulch breaking down or your inorganic mulch losing its color, it’s likely time to refresh or replace it.

Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Mulch

Some of the most obvious signs it’s time to replace mulch include:

• Thinning or disappearing mulch layer
• Weed growth through the mulch
• Fungal growth or mold
• Unpleasant odor
• Loss of color and aesthetic appeal

General Mulch Replacement Guidelines for Wichita

In the Wichita area, it’s best to replace your mulch in early spring or late fall. While early spring gives your plants a head start with weed suppression and moisture retention, we recommend replacing flower bed mulch in mid-to-late spring, around the end of May. At this time, the soil begins to dry out more quickly, and refreshing your mulch helps conserve moisture, prevent weed seed growth and protect your flower beds from fluctuating temperatures. The ideal timing also depends on the type of mulch you have.

How Often to Replace Organic Mulches

• Wood chips – every 1-2 years
• Bark Mulch – every 1-2 years
• Shredded leaves – every year
• Grass clippings – every year
• Compost – every 1-2 years
• Pine needles – every year

How Often to Replace Inorganic Mulches

• Rocks – every 5-10 years
• Landscaping fabric – every 3-5 years
• Rubber mulch – every 5-10 years
• Gravel – every 5-10 years

Tips for Choosing the Right Mulch for Wichita

When choosing mulch consider the following:

• The type of plants being mulched will influence the choice of mulch
• The desired aesthetic will play a role in mulch selection.
• Budget constraints and maintenance preferences should be considered when choosing mulch.
• Consider how compatible the mulch will be with your climate’s soil.

By considering these factors and investing in quality materials, you can make sure your flower beds remain healthy and vibrant. Don’t let your flower beds become an afterthought – proper mulching is a crucial part of flower bed maintenance, allowing your plants to thrive and your landscape to look its best.