There are certain organic materials that work great as a garden mulch material. Some work better that others though, but sometimes you just have to use what is available.

As the mulch breaks down over time it will help to nourish the plants but it’s main goal is to shield the soil and to eliminate evaporation into the atmosphere.

A good store bought mulch may also help to stop weeds from starting. However a homemade organic mulch is probable where most of the weed seeds will come from. But if they are caught early they should not be difficult to deal with.

Straw is usually used and it is a very good mulch because it is porous and it allows moisture to pass through easily. It often comes in a compressed bale and it can be broken up to cover a large area.

It’s cheap and it can be used as an undercoating to a more attractive and costly mulch, not to mention that worms just love the stuff.

There different types of straw. Rice straw is one type and is available in the fall months. Often it is weed free and can be used instantly, but it deteriorates very fast.

A better choice is wheat straw. It will last a while and it has a good consistency. Place the wheat straw when it is dry because when it gets wet from rain water it is very hard to move.

Alfalfa is a bit more expensive but it does offer a few advantages. It has more nutritional value for the soil plus it also makes an excellent feed for livestock. It is also seedless so it will not produce any unwanted plants in your garden.

The good news is you really don’t have to spend any money. Most of what you need is just yard waste.

Fallen leaves can be put to good use in your garden bed and make an excellent garden mulch. They will soften the effects of heavy rain on your soil as well as protect your plants from freezing temperatures during winter.