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Boosting Plant Health and Soil Moisture in July with a Mulch Refresh

Jul 07

July in Central Indiana brings hot sun, dry spells, and thirsty plants. While your landscaping may have looked great in spring, midsummer is when mulch really proves its worth. A mulch refresh isn't just cosmetic—it plays a big role in maintaining plant health, conserving moisture, and keeping weeds at bay during the toughest part of the season.

Here's why July is the perfect time to give your mulch a little attention and how it can help your landscape thrive all summer long.

Why Mulch Matters More in the Heat of Summer

Conserves Soil Moisture

During the hot, dry weeks of July, mulch helps reduce evaporation and keeps moisture in the soil where your plants need it most. This means less watering for you and healthier roots for your shrubs, flowers, and trees.

Protects Plants from Heat Stress

Mulch acts as a natural insulator, keeping the soil cooler on scorching days. This protects root systems from temperature extremes and helps prevent stress-related issues like wilting and leaf scorch.

Suppresses Summer Weeds

A fresh mulch layer blocks sunlight from reaching weed seeds, which helps prevent them from sprouting. That means fewer hours pulling weeds and more time enjoying your yard.

Signs It's Time to Refresh Your Mulch

  • Your mulch looks faded, washed out, or gray
  • It's thin, compacted, or crusty on the surface
  • You're seeing more weeds than usual
  • Mulch depth is less than 2 inches

If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s time to give your beds a quick boost.

Best Practices for a Mid-Summer Mulch Refresh

Choose the Right Mulch Type

At Fine Touch Services, we recommend high-quality hardwood mulch for most landscapes in our region. It's long-lasting, attractive, and helps support healthy soil structure. We offer a range of colors, including rich brown, classic black, and natural wood tones to complement your home and garden style.

Proper Depth and Application Tips

Aim for a total mulch depth of 2 to 3 inches. Too little won’t give you the moisture or weed control you need. Too much can suffocate plant roots. When applying new mulch, avoid piling it against the base of plants or tree trunks—this can cause rot and invite pests.

Prep the Area First

Before adding new mulch, pull any weeds and clear out debris. Use a rake to fluff the existing mulch so it can better mix with the new layer. Then, spread fresh mulch evenly across your beds.

How Fine Touch Services Can Help

Whether you need a full mulch replacement or just a seasonal top-off, Fine Touch Services has you covered. We offer mulch delivery, expert installation, and ongoing maintenance services to keep your landscape healthy, tidy, and beautiful. Our team knows the local climate and soil conditions, so we can recommend the best mulch type and care plan for your yard.

Want to save time and protect your landscape investment? Give us a call—we'll make it easy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should mulch be refreshed?

A: Once a year is standard, with a light touch-up in midsummer to maintain effectiveness.

Q: Can I add new mulch over old mulch?

A: Yes, as long as you fluff the old mulch and maintain a total depth of 2 to 3 inches.

Q: Is dyed mulch safe for plants?

A: Yes, when it comes from trusted suppliers. We use high-quality, plant-safe mulch at Fine Touch.

Q: Will mulch attract bugs?

A: It can attract some insects, but it also supports soil health and deters pests by improving moisture retention.

Q: How much does professional mulching cost in the Indianapolis area?

A: Prices typically range from $200 to $600 depending on the size of your beds and type of mulch. We’re happy to provide a free quote!

About Fine Touch Services

Fine Touch Services is a locally owned landscaping and outdoor living company serving Indianapolis and its surrounding suburbs, including Fishers, Carmel, Westfield, Noblesville, McCordsville, Fortville, and Zionsville. We specialize in creating beautiful, family-friendly outdoor spaces that are built to last. Learn more about us here.


Author

Jake Morris

Jake Morris is the founder and owner of Fine Touch Services, a top-rated lawn care and landscaping company proudly serving Indianapolis and its northern suburbs since 2018. With a passion for outdoor living and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Jake leads a skilled team that delivers high-quality lawn, landscape, and hardscape services to over 8,000 clients annually. From designing serene garden retreats to building backyard entertainment spaces, Jake brings dedication, expertise, and a personal touch to every project. Learn more about Fine Touch Services. Or connect with Jake on LinkedIn.

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