You have planted your plants and they look so good, now you need to finish the bed off with a layer of mulch.  Yes, I know it is not in the budget because you over spent on plants, but there are ways adding mulch cheap if not free. Let this JohnsonCountyEvents writer fill you in on a few places to save some money to finish off the garden.

First, much helps control weeds, and adds nutrients to the soil when it breaks down. Mulch also keeps the roots cool on a hot day and helps the soil retain water so less watering is required.

Do you still have leaves floating around your yard? Leaves make wonderful mulch and will break down and give nutrients to the soil. If you don’t have enough, look at your neighbor’s yard, I am sure they would love the free labor of you raking the leaves from their yard. Before you lay the leaves down on your bed, put the leaves in a big container and break them up so they will not blow away.

If you live in the city, most city’s give away mulch at their bulk trash location. If you don’t have a truck to haul the chips, take some trash bags and fill them, but not to heavy or you will tear the bags.

Tree trimming companies will give you chips when they come through trimming trees, just ask them.

In the fall, gather the leaves and put in a trash bag until spring; the leaves will break down over winter and create what is called leaf mold that is great for mulch. Just be sure and wear a dust mask if you have allergies.

Thanks for reading JohnsonCountyEvents and check back soon for more money saving tips on gardening. Also feel free to email your comments and suggestions to the address located  in the JohnsonCountyEvents Contact Us section about helping your fellow gardener.