Mulch is helpful in the garden to conserve moisture around plants. Composted leaves make a great soil amendment because they add nutrients. You can add regular compost and mulch over it. Mulch at least 6 inches away from the stem or trunk. Pull back the mulch as the ground starts to thaw in spring to help warm up the soil. Then replace mulch when warmer weather conditions continue. Mulch is very helpful in summer when plants need to keep from drying out, plus watering deeply weekly for young woody plants is very helpful and needed. 

For tips on a variety of gardening topics, see our Plant Information Guides.
- Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service